Within the more than 40 varieties of the Dudleya genus, there are two main growth habits: branching and non-branching. Branching liveforever plants create many little rosettes of foliage. These are a perfect choice for ground cover. Non-branching varieties only create one rosette of foliage, making them an eye-catching specimen plant. Dudleya plants have a powdery appearance due to a waxy layer called farina. As a result, the plant has natural protection from excessive sun exposure or bad weather. When tending to Dudleya plants, make it your aim to avoid disturbing the farina through excessive touching of the plant or watering over the foliage. Common pests include aphids, mealybugs, gnats, and slugs. These plants are also prone to rot. Therefore, it is best to plant these succulents at an angle so any water trapped inside the foliage can drain away. This also mimics the plant’s natural habitat since many Dudleya species are found growing on steep, rocky walls. Some varieties are protected by law because of their rarity. Plant poachers have been known to target Dudleya varieties. Be sure to buy your plants from a reputable garden center.
Light
As expected when growing succulents, Dudleya plants thrive in an abundance of sunshine. Plant them in an area with full sun for the best results, especially in areas along coastlines. When grown inland, these plants may prefer some afternoon shade. Be alert to any legginess or stretching, as this is an indication of too little light.
Soil
Dudleya plants require rocky, well-draining soil. Soggy soil can cause rot problems. Sandy, rocky cliffs, or steep walls can also support Dudleya growth. They can tolerate mildly acidic to mildly alkaline soil pH levels.
Water
Water Dudleya plants only when the soil is nearly dry. Watering too often can cause soggy soil conditions. It is best not to water these plants at all during the summer months, as they go dormant and thrive in dry conditions. Withering during this time is normal. As fall arrives, you may need to supply water if rain is sparse. When deciding whether to water a Dudleya plant, be sure the plant has experienced a dry period beforehand. After watering, wait until the soil is dry before watering again. This may need to be done once a month or less. When you do provide water, do so deeply and only at the roots, as succulent plants do not tolerate wet foliage well.
Temperature and Humidity
Not surprisingly, liveforever plants are quite hardy and can tolerate both hot and cold temperatures. As long as the temperature does not drop below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, Dudleya plants will remain viable. Some varieties are more cold-hardy than others, but most prefer dry summers and mild, cool winters.
Fertilizer
Because these plants thrive in sandy, low-nutrient soil, they do not require much fertilizer. Avoid giving any fertilizer while they are dormant during the summer. A slow-release liquid fertilizer can be given in the spring or fall.
Types of Dudleya
D. cymosa: The vibrant orange-red and yellow blooms of this variety make an excellent contrast the plant’s silvery-gray foliage. It’s also known for having a cold-hardy nature, making it a good option for planting in the coldest zones of this plant’s hardiness range.D. arizonica: This non-branching variety is known for its colorful foliage. The leaves start as a silvery-green while young, then turn red as they mature. They produce red stalks and red flowers with orange centers. D. brittonii: A non-branching variety, these plants produce a large, 12- to 18-inch wide rosette of whitish blue-green foliage. It’s accompanied by a tall, vibrant red stalk and bright yellow flowers when in bloom. Because of its size, it is often known as a giant chalk Dudleya.
Propagating Dudleya
Dudleya plants can easily be propagated through division and cuttings. Cuttings can be taken in the spring. These must be offshoots, as individual leaves will not root from these succulents. Division is best done every few years to prevent a leggy, messy look. Over time, Dudleya plants develop tall stalks covered in old, shriveled leaves. Division eliminates this. To propagate with cuttings, you will need a sharp knife or a pair of garden snips, a small pot, a mix of cactus soil and perlite, and some sand. Then follow these instructions: To divide Dudleya plants, you will need a pair of garden gloves and a sharp pair of snips. Then follow these instructions.
How to Grow Dudleya From Seed
Each Dudleya flower produces hundreds of tiny seeds, making seed propagation easy. They can be collected simply by gathering the seed pods and crushing them open. Other than seeds, you will need a seed tray, a well-draining soilless mix, such as sand and perlite, a knife, and a misting bottle. Then follow these instructions.
Potting and Repotting Dudleya
Non-branching varieties of Dudleya make perfect container-grown specimen plants. If you opt to grow these plants in this method, be sure to choose a pot with free-flowing drainage holes and only use well-draining soil. While container-grown plants will need a bit more water than those grown in the garden, you should still ensure that the soil dries out thoroughly between waterings. If the plant outgrows its container, gently remove the plant and either divide it, or place it in a container that is a few inches larger.
Common Problems With Dudleya
When placed in the proper environment, Dudleya succulents do not have many problems. However, even hardy plants may run into a few problems. Let’s look at some common issues to arise with this genus of succulents.
Soggy Foliage
Soggy, soft foliage can be a sign of overwatering or soggy soil. If you notice any foliage beginning to look translucent, soft, or soggy, cut back on watering. Be sure your soil drains well, and amend it with sand if need be. Not addressing overwatering quickly can lead to rot. If rot occurs, you may need to start a new plant from healthy cuttings before the plant is consumed with rot.
Wilting, Shriveling Foliage
Wilting foliage occurs during the hot, dry summers where these plants are grown. Though it may appear to be an issue, this is not actually a problem, as long as it is during the summer. This is because it is a natural part of their dormancy. It is normal and should not be a cause for concern. Continue to withhold water until the fall.
