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Description
Dudleya Pulverulenta Subsp. Arizonica, also known as Arizona chalk dudleya, is a succulent plant that belongs to the family Crassulaceae. It is native to Arizona and California and is often found growing on rocky slopes and cliffs. The plant has a rosette shape and produces fleshy, powdery leaves that are blue-green in color. The leaves have a waxy coating that helps the plant retain moisture in its arid habitat.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Dudleya |
Appearance
Dudleya Pulverulenta Subsp. Arizonica has a distinctive appearance that makes it a popular choice among succulent enthusiasts. The plant grows in a rosette shape, with leaves that are fleshy, powdery, and blue-green in color. The leaves have a waxy coating that helps the plant retain moisture in its arid habitat. The plant can grow up to 12 inches tall and 12 inches wide, with a flower stalk that can reach up to 3 feet in height. The flowers are yellow and appear in late spring or early summer.
Care Guide
Dudleya Pulverulenta Subsp. Arizonica is a relatively easy plant to care for, as long as you provide it with the right growing conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your Arizona chalk dudleya:- Water: Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot, so be careful not to water too frequently.- Fertilization: Fertilize sparingly, using a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply fertilizer in the spring and summer.- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is specifically formulated for succulent plants.- Sunlight: Provide your plant with plenty of bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: Dudleya Pulverulenta Subsp. Arizonica is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dudleya Pulverulenta Subsp. Arizonica is relatively pest and disease resistant, but there are a few common issues to watch out for:- Mealybugs: These small, white insects can infest the leaves and stems of your plant. They can be removed by wiping the plant down with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.- Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal to your plant. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and allow it to dry out completely between waterings.
Habitat
Dudleya Pulverulenta Subsp. Arizonica is native to rocky slopes and cliffs in Arizona and California. It prefers well-draining soil and plenty of bright, indirect sunlight. The plant is adapted to its arid habitat and has a waxy coating on its leaves that helps it retain moisture.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I propagate my Arizona chalk dudleya?
A: Yes, you can propagate your plant by taking stem cuttings or by removing offsets from the base of the plant.
Q: How often should I water my Arizona chalk dudleya?
A: Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In general, you should water your plant about once every 2-3 weeks.
Q: What should I do if my plant gets too much direct sunlight?
A: If your plant is getting too much direct sunlight, move it to a spot with more shade or filter the sunlight with sheer curtains.
Q: How can I tell if my plant is getting too much water?
A: If your plant is getting too much water, the leaves may turn yellow and mushy. You may also notice a foul odor coming from the soil.
Related Plants
– Dudleya Brittonii- Dudleya Caespitosa- Dudleya Farinosa- Dudleya Pulverulenta
References
– Arizona Chalk Dudleya, Arizona State University- Dudleya Pulverulenta Subsp. Arizonica, World of Succulents- How to Grow and Care for Dudleya, The Spruce
