Dudleya pulverulenta, commonly called Chalk Dudleya, is a small succulent native to the rocky outcroppings and coastal bluffs of California, Arizona, Nevada, and Utah. Its leaves are covered in a chalky white powder, which helps protect it from the sun and drought.
In the spring and summer, it sends up tall stems topped with clusters of star-shaped flowers in shades of red and yellow.
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About Dudleya pulverulenta
| Botanical Name | Dudleya pulverulenta |
| Common Name | Chalk Dudleya |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Plant Type | Succulent |
| Origin | California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Height | 12-24 inches |
| Width | 12-24 inches |
| Light | Bright, Indirect Light |
| Bloom season | Spring, Summer |
| Water needs | Low, Moderate |
| Soil | Well-Drained, Loamy |
| Tolerant | Drought |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic |
| Hardiness (USDA) | 9-12 |
Dudleya pulverulenta Care
Light
This plant requires bright sunlight or partial shade. It prefers indirect light, so it doesn’t get scorched by the sun’s rays. Dudleya pulverulenta will not survive in direct sunlight because it will burn up!
Soil
The soil requirements for this plant are simple: it should be well-drained and sandy, with plenty of grit (small particles) mixed in. This will help prevent root rot and keep your soil healthy. You should also make sure that your soil drains well so that it doesn’t become too wet or too dry over time.
Water
The plant should be watered weekly during active growth periods but can go without water for months at a time if necessary. During winter dormancy, water sparingly but regularly to keep the soil from drying out completely.
Temperature
Dudleya pulverulenta can tolerate temperatures between 20 Fahrenheit and 50 Fahrenheit without any problems. The ideal temperature range is between 50 Fahrenheit and 60 Fahrenheit because this will give your plant the best chance of flowering during the spring and summer months.
Humidity
The humidity levels should be kept at 50% or below during the growing season, but they can be reduced to 30% once the plant goes into dormancy in the fall or winter months.
Fertilizer
It’s important to use a fertilizer designed for succulents when caring for Dudleya pulverulenta. A light application of fertilizer every two months during the growing season will keep your plant healthy and happy!
Pruning
Dudleya pulverulenta does not require much pruning at all. In fact, most people do not need to prune their plants at all. If you want to get rid of some of the old leaves on your plant, however, you can do so by cutting them off with a pair of scissors or shears. It’s best to cut off any damaged leaves as soon as possible so that they do not spread disease and infection throughout the rest of your plant’s foliage.
Potting and Repotting Dudleya pulverulenta
Proper potting and repotting practices are crucial for the health of your Dudleya pulverulenta. The best time to repot your Dudleya is in the spring or fall, as these seasons provide the ideal growing conditions. Avoid repotting in the winter, as this can cause undue stress on the plant and hinder its ability to recover.
After repotting, it is essential to water your plant lightly and place it in an area that receives indirect sunlight until it acclimates to its new environment. This will help ensure that your Dudleya pulverulenta continues to thrive and grow.
Prepare
How to Repot (Step-by-Step)
- Gently remove the plant from its old container, taking care not to damage the leaves or roots.
- Remove any dead or damaged leaves and trim excessively long roots.
- Fill the new container with a well-draining soil mix.
- Place the Dudleya in the new container and backfill it with soil, gently pressing down to secure the plant.
- Water the plant thoroughly and allow it to drain.
- Place the plant in a location with bright, indirect sunlight and avoid watering for a few days to allow it to acclimate to its new environment.
Propagating Dudleya pulverulenta by offsets(Step-by-Step)
- Look for offsets during the late spring or early summer.
- Carefully remove the offset from the parent Dudleya using a clean, sharp knife.
- Allow the offset to callus over for a few days.
- Plant the offset in the well-draining soil mix.
- Water sparingly and place in a location with bright, indirect light.
Blooms
This plant produces clusters of small, yellow-red flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The flowers are usually around 1 inch in diameter and grow on tall, thin stems. They are delicate and complement the plant’s already beautiful powdery blue-green foliage.
Toxicity
Dudleya pulverulenta is also non-toxic, meaning it won’t cause any harm to people or animals who come into contact with it.
NOTE: This page is not intended as a substitute for veterinary advice. The toxicity of an ingested substance varies depending on the amount ingested, the animal’s weight, and its sensitivity to specific allergens. Contact your veterinarian or local animal poison control center immediately if you think your pet may have ingested a toxic substance.
Common Pests
Aphids
Aphids can cause yellowing and distortion of leaves. They are often found in clusters on the undersides of leaves. Use a stream of water to dislodge them, or use insecticidal soap.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. They produce a cottony substance that can cover the plant. Treat them by wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
Spider Mites
Spider mites can cause yellowing and webbing on leaves. They are difficult to see but can be controlled by misting the plant regularly or using insecticidal soap.
AVOID
- Overwatering
- Placing under harsh sunlight
- Using poorly drained potting mediums
- Fertilizing during dormancy
