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Description
Dudleya Farinosa, also known as Powdery Liveforever, is a succulent plant that is native to California, particularly in the central and southern regions. This plant belongs to the Crassulaceae family and is a popular addition to rock gardens and xeriscape landscapes. The plant’s scientific name is derived from the botanist William Russell Dudley, who is known for his extensive work in plant ecology.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Dudleya |
Appearance
Dudleya Farinosa is a rosette-forming succulent plant that can grow up to 12 inches tall and wide. The plant has fleshy, powdery blue-green leaves that are covered in a fine, white powder or bloom. The leaves are spoon-shaped and can vary in size from 2 to 6 inches long. The plant’s flowers are bell-shaped and can range in color from yellow to orange-red. The flowers bloom in the spring and summer and can grow up to 1 inch in diameter.
Care Guide
To ensure that your Dudleya Farinosa thrives, you must provide it with the right care. Here are some guidelines to help you:Water: Dudleya Farinosa is a drought-tolerant plant that prefers well-draining soil. Water the plant sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can cause root rot and may lead to the plant’s death.Fertilization: Dudleya Farinosa does not require frequent fertilization, as it can survive in poor soil conditions. However, if you want to promote growth and flowering, you can use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.Soil: Dudleya Farinosa prefers well-draining soil that is sandy or rocky. The soil must be able to retain moisture without becoming waterlogged.Sunlight: Dudleya Farinosa requires full sun to partial shade. Ensure that the plant receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: Dudleya Farinosa is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dudleya Farinosa is generally pest and disease resistant. However, the plant may be susceptible to mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with a mild insecticidal soap. Overwatering can cause root rot and fungal diseases, which can be prevented by ensuring the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Dudleya Farinosa is native to the coastal regions of California, where it grows in rocky cliffs and canyons. The plant is adapted to dry, arid conditions and is often found growing in areas with low rainfall and high temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dudleya Farinosa be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Dudleya Farinosa can be grown indoors, but it requires bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil.Q: How often should I water Dudleya Farinosa?
A: Water Dudleya Farinosa sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry.Q: How tall does Dudleya Farinosa grow?
A: Dudleya Farinosa can grow up to 12 inches tall and wide.Q: Does Dudleya Farinosa require fertilization?
A: Dudleya Farinosa does not require frequent fertilization, but you can use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote growth and flowering.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are closely related to Dudleya Farinosa:
- Dudleya abramsii (Abrams’ Dudleya)
- Dudleya brittonii (Britton’s Dudleya)
- Dudleya caespitosa (Sand Lettuce)
- Dudleya candelabrum (Candelabra Liveforever)
References
– “Dudleya farinosa.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c713.- “Dudleya farinosa.” San Diego Zoo Global Plants. Accessed July 2021. https://www.sdplantworld.org/plant-of-the-month/dudleya-farinosa/.- “Powdery Liveforever.” California Native Plant Society. Accessed July 2021. https://www.cnps.org/gardening/gardening-with-natives/plant-profiles/powdery-liveforever.
