1/6/2013

1

© Project SOUND

Out of the Wilds and Into Your Garden

Gardening with Western L.A. County Native Plants Project SOUND – 2012 (our 8th year)

© Project SOUND

Delightful Dudleyas

C.M. Vadheim and T. Drake

CSUDH & Madrona Marsh Preserve

Madrona Marsh Preserve

March 3 & 6, 2012

© Project SOUND

We already know that California (and Baja

California) plants are special…

Our Mediterranean climate requires that plants adapt to summer drought.

One common adaptations is succulence. Modified tissues store large amounts of water, making the plant part appear fleshy, succulent, or swollen.

Species in various plant families and genera have independently evolved succulence as a mechanism for conserving water and survival in arid environments.

There are an estimated 10,000 succulent plant species throughout the world

© Project SOUND

The Live-forevers: genus Dudleya

Named for William Russel Dudley (1849-1911), first professor of botany and head of the Botany Department at Stanford University

~ 40 species; native to the arid western United States (in particular, Southwest/ Northern California and Oregon), Baja California.

Very similar in appearance to other Stonecrops (sempervivum; sedum; echeveria).

Often grow in stone crevasses or sand dunes with little or no organic soil.

Long-lived (to 100+ years for some species) hence the common name

http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:William_Rus

sell_Dudley_(1849-1911).jpg

1/6/2013

2

© Project SOUND

The Stonecrop Family: Crassulaceae

~ 1500 species

Most genera exhibit some leaf succulence

Many species are used widely as garden and house plants Examples: The genus Crassula includes the well-known Jade

Plants and other small sub-shrubs, choice minatures and mat-forming plants.

Cotyledon includes interesting shrubby species with succulent stems and leaves. Some species have showy tubular yellow, orange or red flowers.

Echeverias are often used in rock gardens and indoor plants.

Kalanchoe includes plants with showy flowers.

Sedums are well known for hardy mat-forming Stonecrops which provides useful flower color in the garden in late summer and early autumn.

http://www.southampton.bcss.org.uk/images/image145.jpg

Echeverias

Kalanchoe http://www.ubcbotanicalgarden.org/potd/2006/02/sedum_spathulifolium.php

Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM)

Found in 3-4% of plant species; at least 26 angiosperm families

Nearly all are “succulents” (thick, fleshy leaves and stems)

Nearly all are from deserts or other hot-summer areas

Is an extremely important water-conservation strategy for plants in hot, dry climates

All plants have the ability to convert

carbon dioxide to sugars, using

energy from the sun

© Project SOUND

The process of photosythesis

Gases and water vapor enter and exit

plants through stomata

© Project SOUND

1/6/2013

3

CAM - observations

Stomates - open at night; closed during day (inverted stomatal cycle)

CO2 uptake – high at night; low during day

Acid content of cells – highest at dawn; lowest at dusk

Conclusion: CAM plants store Carbon as an acid at night

CAM plants like Dudleyas are adapted to

hot, dry climates

Dudleyas only open their stomata at night to take up carbon dioxide. They keep their stomata closed during the hot days, allowing the plant to conserve tremendous amounts of water

The plant assimilates the carbon dioxide at night and converts it to a variety of organic acids. In the morning when the stomata close, the organic acids break down and carbon dioxide is released.

With the energy of the new days sun light, the plant converts the carbon dioxide it has been accumulating all night into sugars.

Before being permanent CAM photosynthesizers, CAMs were probably started intermittently switching to CAM photosynthesis during times of drought and low rainfall. Eventually those species evolved into species that solely depended on CAM photosynthesis

© Project SOUND

Dudleyas can be used in several ways in

the home garden

© Project SOUND

http://davesgarden.com/guides/articles/view/2318/

In terms of their garden potential, you can

think of Dudleyas as belonging to one of

three categories

The Dudleya divas Often larger in size

Showy (exuberant) flowers

Very attractive foliage

The groundcover Dudleyas Medium to small size

Readily spread, forming a mat

The ‘Pretty in a Pot’ Dudleyas Medium to small size

Unique flowers or foliage

© Project SOUND

1/6/2013

4

Dudleya divas – showy accent plants

© Project SOUND

http://www.researchlearningcenter.com/bloom/species/Dudleya_pulverulenta.htm

© Project SOUND

Chalk Dudleya – Dudleya pulverulenta ssp. pulverulenta

http://www.researchlearningcenter.com/bloom/species/Dudleya_pulverulenta.htm

© Project SOUND

Chalk Dudleya – Dudleya pulverulenta ssp. pulverulenta

Coastal regions from San Luis Obispo south into Baja

Locally in Santa Monica Mtns., western San Gabriels

Rocky cliffs and canyons below 3000 feet

Coastal sage scrub, chaparral

http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/cgi-bin/get_JM_treatment.pl?3284,3295,3327,3329

© Project SOUND

Chalk Dudleya is very Echeveria-like

Size:

1-2 ft tall

1-2 ft wide (flower stalks wider)

Growth form: Evergreen succulent

Becomes somewhat dry in summer

Foliage: Leaves flat, end in sharp tips

completely covered with a mealy white powder - hence "pulverulenta" or "powdery."

Stem (caudex) becomes thickened with age – more so than other species

http://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=DUPU

http://www.anniesannuals.com/plants/plant_display.asp?prodid=1536&account=none

1/6/2013

5

© Project SOUND

Taxonomic confusion: is that an Echeveria or a Dudleya?

Quite similar-looking; but with a few important differences

Several local species were formerly included in Echeveria: Canyon Live-forever – Dudleya cymosa Chalk Dudleya – Dudleya pulverulenta Ladyfinger Dudleya – Dudleya edulis

Echeveria Dudleya

http://www.collectorscorner.com.au/Cacti/Echeveri

a%20main.htm

© Project SOUND

Dudleya flowers are slightly different

Dudleya flowers arise from somewhere near the bottom of the rosettes normally (rarely from the rosette center as most Echeveria flowers do).

Dudleyas & Echeverias do not form hybrids between the 2 genera; Dudleyas only interbreed with other Dudleyas

© Project SOUND

But the real difference – and the most important for gardeners – relates to their history

Dudleyas Native to the ‘Pacific Plate’ Adapted to rainy winters & hot, dry

summers Winter-growing; summer dormant Can kill them with too much summer

water

Echeverias Native to the ‘North American Plate’ Adapted to rainy summers & dry winters Summer growing; winter dormant Can kill them with too much winter

water

The two genera have been separated for long

enough that each is very well adapted to its

own environment

© Project SOUND

So…it’s recommended to NOT combine both in

the same part of the garden

Summer watering of Dudleyas should be very occasional: they are very summer ‘water-wise’ compared to Echeverias

Most Dudleyas & Echeverias do best in well-drained soils; gravelly/sandy

The roots of some Dudleya species do not absorb moisture well in the high heat; water simply rots the roots (susceptible to root rot fungi).

Treat as Zone 1-2 (water only several times a summer & not at summer’s end)

Dudleyas in very well-drained soils (sandy) or in pots should be treated as Zone 2

Dudleya virens ssp hassei

http://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.as

p?plant_id=538

1/6/2013

6

© Project SOUND

Dudleyas can also rot from the crown or leaves, particularly if water is left sitting on the delicate leaves (some are more sensitive than others).

Either avoid getting water on the leaves, or plant them at an angle so the water runs off.

In nature, many species grow naturally on cliff faces and steep slopes so water cannot sit on these plants.

Excess water also attracts snails and slugs – which love Dudleyas

Dudleya virens ssp hassei

http://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.as

p?plant_id=538

Bottom line: best to not combine Dudleyas with succulents that have

very different water requirements (Echeverias; Sedums; etc.) © Project SOUND

Give them what

they like…

Plant them in/near rocks Naturally occurring Local boulders brought in to

add interest

Plant them on slopes – or plant the rosette at an angle rather than horizontal

Water only occasionally during summer – Zone 1-2 about right

No overhead water in summer

D. virens ssp. hassei

http://www.flickr.com/photos/93452909@N00/191287029/

Dudleya pulverulenta

http://www.flickr.com/photos/eastbaywilds/241664905/

© Project SOUND

Flowers are like no

others: dramatic!

Blooms: spring/early summer; typical for Dudleyas

Flowers: On long flowering stalks –

plan accordingly

Note hummingbird-plant features:

Red color;

Shape;

Flowers held away from plant to allow access

Heavy duty, sweet nectar

http://www.timetotrack.com/jay/dudleyc5.htm

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3003/2606066487_0aaaf1ed09.jpg?v=0

http://www.laspilitas.com/garden/Anna%27s_Hummingbird_on_chalk_dudlea.jpg

© Project SOUND

Be creative with rocks

& Dudleyas

Sometimes man-made stone structures are perfect places for Dudleyas

http://img4.sunset.com/i/2009/04/dream-gardens-stone-seat-l.jpg

http://www.flickr.com/photos/eastbaywilds/241665013/in/photostream/

http://www.marrsandersen.com/California-plants/California-

plants-Pages/Image28.html

1/6/2013

7

© Project SOUND

* Silver Dollar Plant - Dudleya brittonii

http://www.yerbabuenanursery.com/viewplant.php?pid=1509

Native coastal areas of the Pacific side of Baja California between Tijuana & Ensenada and on Isla Todos Santos

On cliffs and hilly areas in lava rock and other very porous soils.

© Project SOUND

Silver Dollar Plant - Dudleya brittonii

http://home.comcast.net/~ldecola/baja/

http://www.yacht-transport.com/page/autumn2009/Oregon.html

Nathaniel Lord Britton

the specific epithet honors Nathaniel Lord Britton (1859-1934), botanist and first Director of the New York Botanical Garden. Dr. Britton is also famous for his collaboration with Joseph Nelson Rose of the Carnegie Institute on The Cactaceae, a four-volume work started in 1906 and published in 1924.

© Project SOUND http://sabrinacampagna.tumblr.com/post/2675832454/the-cactaceae-vol-4-descriptions-and

http://www.nceas.ucsb.edu/~alroy/lef

a/Britton.html

© Project SOUND

Silver Dollar Dudleya –

a larger dudleya

Size: 1+ ft tall

1-2 ft wide

Growth form: Basal rosette – stem (caudex) is very

short, so leaves are bunched up

40 to 100 leaves, each up to 10 inches long

Often solitary – not spreading

Moderate lifespan – 30+ years

Foliage: Green or (more commonly in trade)

very blue-white

Leaves flattened

http://www.soenyun.com/Blog/2010/10/18/my-new-natives/

http://www.bambooandmore.info/2011_10_02_archive.html

http://www.baynatives.com/plants/Dudleya-brittonii/

1/6/2013

8

Why are some Dudleyas so white?

Why? Protection against sun damage

Water conservation

How? Leaves are covered with a dusty,

chalky, mealy white epicuticular “wax”.

The wax in its mealy state on the leaves is attracted to water and coats drops on the leaves and prevents their evaporation.

The wax has the highest measured ultraviolet reflectivity of any plant.

© Project SOUND

http://www.arthurleej.com/p-o-m-Jan11.html

http://image54.webshots.com/154/5/90/28/539959028nsjBLY_fs.jpg © Project SOUND

Flowers are fantastic

Blooms: in spring – usually Apr-June in our area

Flowers: Pale yellow

Stout flowering stem and bracts are pastel pink (worthy of a diva); beautiful contrast with foliage

Attract hummingbirds

Seeds: Dry capsules split open when

seeds are ripe

Seeds are tiny, many

http://www.xericworld.com/forums/members/kelly-griffin-albums-dudleya-picture1145-dudleya-

brittonii-la-mission.html http://www.succulent-plant.com/families/crassulaceae/dudleya.html

© Project SOUND

Plant Requirements Soils:

Texture: well-drained

pH: any local

Light: Afternoon shade

Dappled shade

Water: Winter: needs normal amount

Summer: best with infrequent summer water – Zone 1-2; no overhead water

Fertilizer: none; likes poor soils

Other: tolerates garden conditions

better than the similar looking

Dudleya pulverulenta

http://www.scientificlib.com/en/Biology/Plants/Magnoliophyta/DudleyaBrittonii01.html

© Project SOUND

Give the diva a proper stage!

In a Baja-themed garden, with it’s natural associates

In a rock or gravel garden – be sure to consider contrasts

Often grown as a specimen plant in a large container

http://www.flickriver.com/photos/amarguy/3949915856/

http://www.faroutflora.com/2011/01/08/dudleyas-dudleyas-dudleyas/

http://www.hotgardens.net/cactus%20and%20succulents%20at%20huntington%20desert%20ga

rden.htm

1/6/2013

9

© Project SOUND

Designing with diva dudleyas

Accent plants whether alone or interplanted

http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/gXhU4_V-Hhg78Lwpg9OOZQ

http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/iiUK9e2RW16pM8msvsmB4g

Use contrast to show divas in their best light

© Project SOUND

http://www.plantscomprehensive.com/dudleya-brittonii http://www.southcoastbotanicgarden.org/node/368

http://www.hotgardens.net/succulent_cactus_gallery.htm

Many Dudleyas are long-lived

© Project SOUND

http://www.flickr.com/photos/morabeza79/favorites/page38/?view=lg

© Project SOUND

Dudleya ‘Palos Verdes’ – a lucky accident

Probably hybrid : D. pulverulenta X D. brittonii

Good characteristics of both parents

http://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=3232

1/6/2013

10

© Project SOUND

* Canyon Dudleya – Dudleya cymosa

http://www.calfloranursery.com/pages_plants/pages_d/dudcym.html © Project SOUND

* Canyon Dudleya – Dudleya cymosa

Dudleya cymosa ssp. ovatifolia = Santa Monica Mountains Dudleya (threatened species)

Dudleya cymosa ssp. marcescens also endemic to SMM (endangered)

http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/cgi-bin/get_JM_treatment.pl?3284,3295,3310

http://www.xericworld.com/forums/crassulaceae/2906-dudleya-cymosa.html

Dudleya cymosa

ssp. ovatifolia

© Project SOUND

Many Dudleyas have small or threatened distribution: some are very rare

Like many California native plants, dudleyas are now considered rare, threatened or endangered, depending on the species. All are protected by law, making it illegal to remove any plants from their natural habitat.

More are coming into cultivation – but many still are not available

Dudleya greenii – a Channel

Islands endemic

© Project SOUND

Canyon Dudleya: a diva, yes, but smaller

Size:

< 1 ft tall (6-8” commonly)

< 1 ft wide

Growth form: Basal rosette; Echeveria-like

habit

Foliage: Leaves light green to blue-

green; waxy

Shape varies with sub-species; flat and spoon-shaped to lance-shaped.

Leaves cup/hold water

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Dudleya_cymosa_1.jpg

http://www.flickr.com/photos/33818785@N00/2594840898/

1/6/2013

11

© Project SOUND

ssp. marescens

Endemic to Santa Monica Mtns

Grows on shaded, rocky slopes

Rare

Flowers yellow, sometimes w/ pink bracts

http://www.researchlearningcenter.com/bloom/species/Dudleya_cymosa_marcescens.htm

http://jay.timetotrack.com/dudlym3.htm

http://www.callutheran.edu/wf/chap/family/bjc-1781.htm

ssp. ovatifolia

Occur on sedimentary and volcanic rocks of the western Santa Monica Mountains

Also occurs in a few isolated occurrences in the Santa Ana Mountains of Orange Co.

Rare

Flowers bright yellow with pink stalk

© Project SOUND

Grows on shaded, rocky slopes

© Project SOUND

ssp. pumila

CA endemic

San Gabriel Mtns; also found in Kern, Mojave and as far north as Monterey.

On Rocky outcrops, slopes, talus

Flowers yellow with conspicuous pink bracts

Likely the one available in the trade, as it is the most showy

Ssp. pumila

http://www.siskiyourareplantnursery.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=200 http://www.flickr.com/photos/33818785@N00/2594840898/ © Project SOUND

Flowers are showy

Blooms: in spring – usually Apr-May in western L.A. Co.

Flowers:

Flowers on relatively short ( ~ 1 ft) flowering stalks that may be more simple or many branched (ssp. pumila); arise among older leaves (base of rosette)

Flowers usually yellow but may be pink; bracts and stems usually pink to orange-pink; often showy

http://www.calfloranursery.com/pages_plants/pages_d/dudcym.html

http://www.cnps-sgm.org/gallery/G-Dudleya.html

1/6/2013

12

© Project SOUND

Excellent drainage Soils: Texture: well-drained; sandy or

rocky best

pH: any local

Light: Afternoon shade is best; will look

best and survive better even in hot inland gardens

Full sun only on immediate coast

Water: Winter: adequate; supplement in

dry years

Summer: best with occasional (once a month) summer water – Water Zone 1-2

Fertilizer: none; likes poor soils. ¼ strength fertilizer in spring for container plants

http://www.flickr.com/photos/33818785@N00/2594841114/

Use a rock mulch, like

Mother Nature does © Project SOUND

Showcase a Diva

Makes an attractive pot plant; neat rosette & showy flowers

Recommended for rock crevices or growing out of the base of boulders in the rock garden

Pair with local ferns, Monkeyflowers, Nightshades

http://www.wildgingerfarm.com/Dudleya.htm

http://www.wrightmanalpines.com/plant/dudleya-cymosa

http://stevewolf.smugmug.com/keyword/crassulaceae/1/1264431629_VzWnxbD#!i=1264431629

&k=VzWnxbD http://www.yerbabuenanursery.com/viewplant.php?pid=0284

Be creative – Canyon Dudleya is a

versatile addition to the garden

© Project SOUND

Penstemon heterophyllus, Dudleya cymosa,

Mock Heather, and Sulfur Buckwheat seem to

do fine in hard, compacted soils

http://www.laspilitas.com/stores/escondido

© Project SOUND

http://www.cyndyandjohn.com/Holiday%20Letter%202004.htm

http://gardeninginaustin.blogspot.com/2012/01/project-front-flower-bed.html http://designerblog.blogspot.com/2008_07_01_archive.html

http://www.merchantcircle.com/business/Earth.Transformations.303-554-1352/picture/view/1707601

1/6/2013

13

© Project SOUND

Many-stemmed Dudleya – Dudleya multicaulis

© 2002 BonTerra Consulting

Los Angeles Co. to western San Bernardino, Riverside, Orange and San Diego Cos.

Most of its known occurrences are in Orange County, where it lives mostly along the coastal plain in heavy clay soils.

In dry, stony places below 2000 ft. in San Diegan Coastal Sage scrub, Valley Grassland & chaparral.

© Project SOUND

Many-stemmed Dudleya – Dudleya multicaulis

© Project SOUND

Dudleya multicaulis is somewhat unusual

Size: < 1 ft tall & wide

Growth form: Stem/upper root corm-like

(underground vertical stem); dies back in dry season

In wild is not readily identifiable except during the late spring and early summer when succulent leaves and flowers may be observed.

Foliage: Leaves few, finger-like,

blue-green with pink blush

http://www.calflora.net/bloomingplants/manystemmeddudleya.html © Project SOUND

Flowers: almost bulb-like

Blooms: in spring - usually in April-June

Flowers: dominated by its erect

stems, which are topped with a branching inflorescence bearing up to 15 flowers on each long, thin branch.

The flowers have pointed yellow petals up to a centimeter long, and long stamens.

Flowers age to red

Seeds: many, small in dry capsule that splits open

© 2010 Andrew Borcher

http://nathistoc.bio.uci.edu/plants/Crassulaceae/Dudleya%20multicaulis.htm

1/6/2013

14

© Project SOUND

Plant Requirements

Dudleya multicaulis

Soils: Texture: well-drained; rocky

best

pH: any local

Light: Afternoon shade or dappled

sun

Can also take full sun – dies back in summer

Water: Winter: adequate moisture

Summer: dry to occasional water – Water Zones 1 or 1-2; let dry out after blooming like a bulb

Fertilizer: none; likes poor soils

Other: inorganic mulch

http://nathistoc.bio.uci.edu/plants/Crassulaceae/Dudleya%20multicaulis.htm

© Project SOUND

Bulb-like Diva

Grow where its small size will be appreciated:

Rock walls

Rock gardens

Containers

Works well in local native bulb/fern garden

© 2003 Kristin Szabo

shown with Isocoma menziesii, Hemizonia

fasciculata http://nathistoc.bio.uci.edu/plants/Crassulaceae/Dudleya%20multicaulis.htm

San Gabriel Mtns. Dudleya – Dudleya densiflora

© Project SOUND © Project SOUND http://drystonegarden.com/index.php/2009/01/cabernet-stone-terracing/

1/6/2013

15

© Project SOUND

*Powdery Live-forever – Dudleya farinosa

© Br. Alfred Brousseau, Saint Mary's College

© Project SOUND

*Powdery Live-forever – Dudleya farinosa

http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/cgi-bin/get_JM_treatment.pl?3284,3295,3320

Most common along coast from San Francisco and north for about 800 miles to Oregon and some miles up its coast.

Typical coastal species – low-growing with very showy flowers

© Project SOUND

Powdery Dudleya: a

spreading diva

Super succulent to fill a pot or rock crevice

Can also be used as a succulent groundcover

http://www.infojardin.com/foro/showthread.php?t=36822

© 2002 Brad Kelley

Gerald and Buff Corsi © California Academy of Sciences

Dudleya groundcovers – the

spreaders

© Project SOUND

http://www.faroutflora.com/2011/01/08/dudleyas-dudleyas-dudleyas/

1/6/2013

16

Many Dudleyas work well in planters

© Project SOUND

http://drystonegarden.com/index.php/2009/01/cabernet-stone-terracing/

© Project SOUND

Dudleyas are so versatile : formal or informal

Dudleyas with strict rosettes look quite formal

http://www.ecosalon.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/more-showcase-2009-023-341x455.jpg

http://kristamaxwell.com/garden/photos2.html

Dudleya

Groundcovers

© Project SOUND

http://marvistagreengardenshowcase.blogspot.com/2012/02/3041-midvale-avenue.html

http://marvistagreengardenshowcase.blogspot.com/2012/02/12806-stanwood-drive.html

Dudleya farinosa

Dudleya virens Dudleya edulis Dudleya anomala Dudleya viscida

Dudleya caespitosa

© Project SOUND

Bright Green Dudleya – Dudleya virens ssp hassei

1/6/2013

17

© Project SOUND

Bright Green Dudleya – Dudleya virens ssp insularis

© Project SOUND

Bright Green Dudleya – Dudleya virens

Two local subspecies: ssp. hassei – Catalina

ssp. insularis – Palos Verdes, S. Channel Islands

On steep slopes in chaparral, coastal bluff scrub, and coastal sage scrub habitats below 1000 ft.

http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/cgi-bin/get_JM_treatment.pl?Dudleya+virens

© Project SOUND

Characteristics of ssp. hassei

Size:

< 6 in. tall

1-2 ft wide

Growth form: Spreading clump of

succulent rosettes

Evergreen; dries in summer

Foliage: Succulent, cylindrical

leaves

Color: blue-green to more yellow-green

Flowers: pale yellow on pale pink stalk

http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Dudleya_virens

Dudleya virens

ssp. hasseii

© Project SOUND

http://www.faroutflora.com/2011/01/08/dudleyas-dudleyas-dudleyas/

http://crassulaceae.net/dudleyamenu/72-speciesdudleya/224-

dudleya-part-5-list-of-species

1/6/2013

18

© Project SOUND

Characteristics of ssp. insularis

Size: a bit bigger

~ 1 ft tall

1-2+ ft wide

Growth form: Spreading clump of succulent

rosettes

Evergreen; dries in summer

Foliage: Succulent, cylindrical leaves

Color: blue-green to more yellow-green; usually more glaucus (white farina) than ssp. hassei

Flowers: pale pink-yellow on brighter pink stalk

© 2003 BonTerra Consulting

Dudleya virens

ssp. insularis

© Project SOUND

http://crassulaceae.net/dudleyamenu/72-speciesdudleya/224-

dudleya-part-5-list-of-species

© Project SOUND

Plant Requirements

for Dudleya virens

Soils: Texture: best in light, well-

drained soil, but can succeed in many gardens

pH: any local

Light: Full sun only in coastal area

Light shade (afternoon shade) in hotter inland gardens; needs enough sun for good color, shape

Water: Winter: needs good winter rains

Summer: keep fairly dry – Zone 1-2 best

Fertilizer: likes poor soils; can lightly fertilize (1/5 strength) in winter (esp. in pots)

© 2005 BonTerra Consulting © Project SOUND

Groundcover Dudleyas

in the garden

Attractive pot plants

Good for succulent ground-covers (best in small areas; smaller varieties (spp. hassei) work best)

Excellent choice for rock gardens, dry-stone walls, retaining walls

On hillsides, slopes

http://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=2987

1/6/2013

19

© Project SOUND

Keeping Dudleyas healthy: summary

Plant in well-drained soils, at an angle

Water properly; depends on soils

Promote good air circulation

Don’t stress the plants: heat, cold

Prevent & treat common problems:

Aphids & Mealy bugs: prevent Argentine ants from introducing mealybugs or aphids to your dudleyas - Mealybugs particularly attack roots

Snails & slugs: don’t over-water; remove

Rabbits & deer: exclude from garden area

For greatest success in cultivation, choose species from your local area.

© Project SOUND

*Ladyfinger Live-forever – Dudleya edulis

© 2000 Salvatore Zimmitti

© Project SOUND

*Ladyfinger Live-forever – Dudleya edulis

http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/cgi-bin/get_JM_treatment.pl?3284,3295,3319

Orange, Riverside and San Diego Counties south to Baja

Rocky/sandy slopes, hillsides, ledges below 4000’

coastal sage scrub, chaparral

edulis : edible

http://www.kenbowles.net/sdwildflowers/FamilyIndexes/Crassulaceae/FotoIndex.htm

http://www.miriameaglemon.com/photogallery/Plants.htm

http://www.plantscomprehensive.com/sandiegonatives-blog

© Project SOUND

Ladyfinger Dudleya: small and upright

Size:

to 1 ft tall

1+ ft wide

Growth form: Evergreen succulent

Spreads by forming new rosettes; may become mat-like in right setting

Foliage: Blue-green to light green

with white cast; may be pink tinged

Leaves finger-like, upright

© 2009 Aaron Schusteff

1/6/2013

20

© Project SOUND

Ladyfinger flowers are

delicate & pretty

Flowers: Pale color- range from

white to light yellow or light peach

Open star shape – quaint appearing

Showy red or orange anthers – really distinctive

© 2005 Jasmine J. Watts

http://www.kenbowles.net/sdwildflowers/FamilyIndexes/Crassulaceae/FotoIndex.htm © Project SOUND

Lady-fingers stars in pots or as

a ground cover

Nice in a large pot – fills the pot or plant with other species; place it where you can enjoy the flowers

Great groundcover on slopes or in small areas; will fill in around rocks

You can even use it as a house plant http://www.flickr.com/photos/eastbaywilds/3526601427/

http://www.kenbowles.net/sdwildflowers/FamilyIndexes/Crassulaceae/FotoIndex.htm

© Project SOUND

Garden hardy - even inland

© Project SOUND

Maintaining Dudleyas: fairly easy

No pruning is necessary, although dudleya will benefit from a beheading (stem cutting) if the plant becomes old or tall and spindly.

You may want to remove any leaves which have died. This will help to avoid rot and bugs.

Avoid touching the healthy leaves - your body oils will leave marks or remove farina.

1/6/2013

21

© Project SOUND

Sticky Dudleya – Dudleya viscida

© 2002 Dean Wm. Taylor

Southern coastal S. CA – primarily Orange & San Diego Co.

Rocky bluffs and hillsides in CSS and Chaparral – often a literal ‘cliff-hanger’

Rare/threatened in the wild – CNPS 1B.2

© Project SOUND

Sticky Dudleya – Dudleya viscida

http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/cgi-bin/get_JM_treatment.pl?3284,3295,3339

© Roxanne Bittman and CNPS

http://crassulaceae.net/dudleyamenu/72-speciesdudleya/224-dudleya-part-5-list-of-species

© Project SOUND

Sticky Dudleya –

slowly spreading

Size: 1 ft tall (flower stalks taller)

1-2 ft wide – spreads slightly

Growth form: Starts as rather dense basal rosette

– caudex short

Succulent – frost sensitive

Foliage: Bright green to red-tipped or yellow

green – depends on heat, sun, drought

Cylindrical, upright leaves – pointed tips

Sticky with slightly resinous exudate – more so in hot-dry – unusual for Dudleya

http://www.soenyun.com/Blog/2010/10/18/my-new-natives/

http://davesgarden.com/guides/articles/view/2318/ © Project SOUND

Flowers are pink!!!

Blooms: in spring - usually April-May in our area

Flowers: Pale pink (nearly white) to

medium pink with darker pink stripes

Small size – like all Dudleyas

Flowering stem is much-divided – so many more flowers than most Dudleyas – literally ‘covered with flowers’

Seeds: tiny; birds will eat

Vegetative reproduction: naturally produces offsets (pups)

© 2006 Jasmine J. Watts

© 2009 Robert Steers

1/6/2013

22

© Project SOUND

http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Dudleya_viscida

© Project SOUND

Plant Requirements Soils: Texture: well-drained rocky

soils are best – but more adaptable than most

pH: any local

Light: Full sun to part-shade

Water: Winter: needs good drainage

Summer: best with occasional summer water – Water Zone 1-2; very drought tolerant but won’t look as nice

Fertilizer: none; likes poor soils

Other: Use an inorganic mulch

Cut old flower stalks in fall

© 2009 Robert Steers

http://crassulaceae.net/dudleyamenu/72-speciesdudleya/224-dudleya-part-5-list-

of-species

© Project SOUND

Good for slopes & walls

On dry slopes

As an attractive pot plant – a real beauty in bloom

In a rock garden

In a dry-stone wall

Along a sidewalk or block wall © 2009 Robert Steers

© 2009 Robert Steers http://crassulaceae.net/dudleyamenu/72-speciesdudleya/224-dudleya-part-5-list-of-species

Dudleya Garden - Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

© Project SOUND

http://www.gardentourist.org/Santa_Barbara_Botanic_Garden/Santa_Barbara_Botanic_Garden.html

http://www.gardentourist.org/Santa_Barbara_Botanic_Garden/Santa_Barbara_Botanic_Garden.

html

A fairly informal garden

http://www.xericworld.com/forums/members/sarmis-luters-albums-dudleyas-santa-

barbara-botanical-garden-picture4779-sticky-live-forever-dudleya-viscida-july-2-

2011.html

1/6/2013

23

© Project SOUND

* No Name Dudleya – Dudleya anomala

Range: Baja Norte, Mexico on Coronado and Todos los Santos Islands (off coast near Ensanada), and rarely at Pico Banda

Always growing on north facing cliffs

© Project SOUND

* No Name Dudleya – Dudleya anomala

© Project SOUND

Garden uses for No

Name Dudleya

Nice smaller groundcover Dudleya – especialy in bright shade to afternoon shade

As an attractive pot plant

http://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/showimage/330302/ © Project SOUND

Sea Lettuce – Dudleya caespitosa

1/6/2013

24

© Project SOUND

Sea Lettuce – Dudleya caespitosa

http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/cgi-bin/get_JM_treatment.pl?3284,3295,3307

© 2006 Steven Thorsted

http://www.faroutflora.com/2010/04/27/im-a-dudleya-dork/

Ft. Funston bluffs Point Mugu

Coastal California, from Monterrey county to Los Angeles county – locally at Point Mugu, N. Santa Monica Mtns

Commonly found on coastal bluffs

AKA ‘Sand Lettuce’

© Project SOUND

Characteristics of Dudleya caespitosa

Size: medium

~ 1 ft tall

~ 1 ft wide

Growth form: Slightly different in N & S

part of range

N coast – echeveria-like

S coast – more sparse, more finger-like leaves

Spreading - groundcover

Foliage: Pale green to blue-green;

sometimes pinkish tipped

Nice looking with just a little water

http://www.desert-tropicals.com/Plants/Crassulaceae/Dudleya_caespitosa.html

http://www.researchlearningcenter.com/bloom/species/Dudleya_caespitosa.htm

© Project SOUND

Flowers: yellow with pink

accents

Blooms: in spring – usually Mar-May in our area

Flowers: On rather slender, branching

pink stalks - wand-like

Flowers bright yellow – flower bracts may be orange or even pink

Lovely massed ; and hummingbirds will love this groundcover!

Vegetative reproduction: Readily forms offsets (pups)

http://www.researchlearningcenter.com/bloom/species/Dudleya_caespitosa.htm

http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Dudleya_caespitosa © Project SOUND

Coastal plant: coastal

requirements Soils:

Texture: well-drained – rocky or sandy best

pH: any local – 6.00-8.00

Light: Full sun to light shade along

coast

Afternoon shade in most gardens

Water: Winter: adequate moisture

Summer: best with a little summer water – Zone 1-2 (even 2 in sandy soils); don’t let water sit on leaves

Fertilizer: none; likes poor soils

Other: inorganic mulch

http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Dudleya_caespitosa

http://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/dudleya-caespitosa

1/6/2013

25

© Project SOUND

Dudleya caespitosa

A versatile Dudleya that can be used in many attractive ways in the garden

http://www.flickr.com/photos/exuberance/3251771669/ http://www.anniesannuals.com/plt_lst/lists/general/lst.gen.asp?prodid=3942

Point Lobos

http://geogdata.csun.edu/~voltaire/ann/plant/pointlobos.html

Dudleya ?caespitosa hybrid 'Frank Reinelt'

Beautiful native succulent with silver leaves that blush rose-purple with winter chill.

form dense mounds 6 - 8 inches tall

Recommended in rock gardens and as groundcover esp. on slopes w/ other N CA species. Great in containers!

Sometimes mistakenly sold as Dudleya 'Anacapa' in the nursery trade.

© Project SOUND

http://www.calfloranursery.com/plants/dudleya-frank-reinelt

http://www.theodorepayne.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Dudleya_'Frank_Reinelt'&printable=yes

Smaller Dudleyas – the container species

© Project SOUND http://slosson.ucdavis.edu/documents/2005-200610656.pdf

© Project SOUND

Container gardens – allow you to provide

just the right conditions

http://slosson.ucdavis.edu/documents/2005-200610656.pdf

1/6/2013

26

Containers also allow you to design with plants and

containers, creating unique garden accents

© Project SOUND

http://marvistagreengardenshowcase.blogspot.com/2011/02/3922-albright-avenue.html

http://www.flickriver.com/photos/eastbaywilds/sets/72157594276050096/

© Project SOUND

Designing with succulents: use shape &

color contrasts to create

interest

Dudleya pulverulenta (l) & D. edulis (r)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/72544341@N00/2310150657

© Project SOUND

Containers, plants & mulch should complement

http://lasmmcnps.org/images/Dudleya%20pulverulenta%202.JPG

Native succulents Dudleya pulverulenta

(chalk dudleya) Dudleya edulis (San Diego

dudleya) and a small Sedum spathulifolium

(stonecrop)

© Project SOUND

Lance-leaf Dudleya (Live-forever) – Dudleya lanceolata

http://www.timetotrack.com/jay/dudleyl2.htm

1/6/2013

27

© Project SOUND

Santa Barbara and Kern Cos. to northern Baja

Local mountain ranges including both coastal & desert ranges; also Palos Verdes peninsula

common on dry and rocky slopes to 3500' in coastal sage scrub and chaparral

Most often on less harsh and moister north-facing slopes

http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/cgi-bin/get_JM_treatment.pl?3284,3295,3323

Lance-leaf Dudleya (Live-forever) – Dudleya lanceolata

© Project SOUND

Lance-leaf Dudleya

Dudleya lanceolata

Local mountain ranges including both coastal & desert ranges; also Palos Verdes peninsula

Interesting foliage color & shape

Flowers very showy – hot pink

http://kristamaxwell.com/garden/photos2.html

http://www.calflora.net/bloomingplants/lanceleafdudleya.html

© Project SOUND

Palmer’s Live-forever – Dudleya palmeri

Gary A. Monroe @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database © Project SOUND

Palmer’s Live-forever – Dudleya palmeri

http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/cgi-bin/get_JM_treatment.pl?3284,3295,3326

Endemic to the central & s. coast from Monterey to Los Angeles Co. – locally in Santa Monica Mtns.

Coastal areas in natural rock gardens, rock crevices, slopes, hillsides under 500 ft elevation

http://www.researchlearningcenter.com/bloom/species/Dudleya_palmeri.htm

© 2004 Brent Miller

1/6/2013

28

© Project SOUND

Characteristics of Palmer’s

Size: moderate

1 ft tall

1 ft wide

Growth form: Basal rosette typical of

Dudleya

15-25 leaves

Foliage: Medium to blue-green

Leaves flat, broad, lance-shaped

Leaves can be short or quite long depending on light & other conditions

http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Dudleya_palmeri

© Project SOUND

Palmer’s flowers are

bright & showy

Blooms: in spring usually March/April/May in western L.A. County

Flowers: One a stout pink flowering stalk

like a candelabra – at least 12” above the rosette

Flowers yellow/yellow-orange; bracts are hot pink – really bright and showy (to attract hummingbirds)

Seeds: Many, small in dry capsule

Birds eat them

© 2004 Brent Miller

http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Dudleya_palmeri

© Project SOUND

Plant Requirements:

Palmers Dudleya Soils:

Texture: well-drained

pH: any local

Light: Afternoon shade/dappled

shade

In nature, usually on east-facing slopes, canyon walls

Water: Winter: adequate; supplement

if needed

Summer: infrequent (Water Zone 1-2); keep leaves dry

Fertilizer: none; likes poor soils; pots need ¼ strength in spring

Other: inorganic mulch (if any) – follow Mother Nature’s cues

http://www.researchlearningcenter.com/bloom/species/Dudleya_palmeri.htm

© Project SOUND

Garden uses for Palmer’s Dudleya

As an attractive container plant – alone or with other dudleyas

In a rock garden or rocky berm

In drystone wall and pervious retaining walls

East-facing slopes with CA fuschia & local native ferns

http://davesgarden.com/guides/articles/view/2318/

http://www.researchlearningcenter.com/bloom/species/Dudleya_palmeri.htm

1/6/2013

29

© Project SOUND

Growing Dudleyas in containers

Dudleyas grow well in pots and make excellent outdoor specimens in Mediterranean climates.

Potting soil should be very well-draining; amend potting soils with sharp sand and pumice to insure good drainage.

Watering: treat as Zone 2; monitor carefully in hot weather

Light: afternoon shade or bright shade best

Propagation: easiest by removing rooted offsets (pups), but can be from seed

Dudleya farinosa

© Project SOUND

Other considerations for growing Dudleyas

Bright light is integral to the proper growth of this genus.

Plants grown in low-light will lose their color, grow tall and spindly and will eventually die.

Most Dudleyas make poor houseplants

Most Dudleyas do best with moderate temperatures - protect from blistering afternoon heat, frosts (particularly if in pots)

Potting soil should be very well-draining; use a cactus mix or amend available soils with sharp sand and pumice to insure good drainage.

Dudleya ‘Bright Sprite’

1 ft x 1 ft

Pale, pastel foliage and flowers

Sun to part-shade

Occasional water

Beautiful in rock gardens or containers. Excellent mass planted or as an accent against darker foliage such as Ceanothus

© Project SOUND

http://www.theodorepayne.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Dudleya_'Bright_Sprite'

http://photobucket.com/images/Dudleya+'Bright+Sprite'/

© Project SOUND

Dudleya gnoma [D. greenei] - ‘White Sprite’

Native to Santa Rosa Island – rare in nature

Small and charming – very white

Readily available

http://www.desert-

tropicals.com/Plants/Crassulaceae/Dudleya_gno

ma.html

http://www.yerbabuenanursery.com/viewplant.php?pid=1531

http://crassulaceae.net/dudleyamenu/94-photos/538-

dudleya-gnoma-white-sprite-photos

1/6/2013

30

© Project SOUND

Abram’s Dudleya – Dudleya abramsii

© 2006 Steve Matson

© Project SOUND

Abram’s Dudleya – Dudleya abramsii

http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/cgi-bin/get_JM_treatment.pl?3284,3295,3296

Ssp. affinis

© 2011 Chris Winchell

Mountains of San Diego, Riverside and San Bernardino Counties & N. Baja

Rocky outcrops (granitic or quartzite, rarely limestone); Chaparral, Yellow Pine Forest, Foothill Woodland between 150 and 8500 feet

Name honors Leroy Abrams, its discoverer, 1903

Desert side of San Bernardino Mtns

© Project SOUND

San Bernardino Mountains

Liveforever - ssp. affinis

http://www.desertusa.com/flowers/San-Bernardino-Mountains-Liveforever.html http://www.xericworld.com/forums/crassulaceae/2878-dudleya-abramsii-affinis-baldwinensis.html

http://rareplanttreasurehunt.blogspot.com/201

1/08/highlights-of-season.html

http://crassulaceae.net/dudleyamenu/72-

speciesdudleya/224-dudleya-part-5-list-of-species

Dudleya abramsii

ssp. murina

San Luis Obispo

© Project SOUND

http://crassulaceae.net/dudleyamenu/72-speciesdudleya/224-dudleya-part-5-list-

of-species

1/6/2013

31

Conejo Dudleya - ssp. parva

© Project SOUND

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dudleya_abramsii

http://hazmac.biz/061030/061030DudleyaAbramsiiParva.html

http://crassulaceae.net/dudleyamenu/72-speciesdudleya/224-dudleya-part-5-list-of-species

Mark W. Skinner @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

© Project SOUND

Characteristics of Abram’s Dudleya

Size: petite: often 6” tall and wide

Growth form: Leaf & stem succulent

Short caudex – forms basal rosette

Usually 10-20 leaves per rosette

Foliage: Pale green to blue-green

Waxy white

Leaves lance-shaped, flattened and pointed

Roots: reach into cracks in the rocks

http://www.soenyun.com/Blog/2010/10/18/my-new-natives/

© 2008 Thomas Stoughton

© Project SOUND

Flowers are also petite Blooms: in spring – April-June

Flowers: Pale yellow; typical Dudleya

shape

Many pale pink, branched stalks – lots of flowers for such a small plant

Vegetative reproduction: may produce off-sets

© 2008 Thomas Stoughton

© Project SOUND

Plant Requirements Soils:

Texture: more adaptable than expected – likes well-drained

pH: any local

Light: Afternoon shade best in most

gardens

Dappled sun fine

Water: Winter: adequate to replenish

deep stores

Summer: occasional water for best appearance – Water Zone 1-2; taper off in fall

Fertilizer: none; likes poor soils

Other: slugs, snails, mealybugs

© 2005 Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

1/6/2013

32

© Project SOUND

Place where you can

appreciate it

As an attractive pot plant

In a rock garden – near the front

On a rocky berm

In a drystone wall

© 2005 Chris Wagner, SBNF

© 2006 Steve Matson © 2011 Chris Winchell

© Project SOUND

More small-sized Dudleyas from S. CA

© 2006 Steve Matson

© 2006 Vince Scheidt

Dudleya attenuata ssp. orcuttii

© 2006 Steve Matson

Dudleya cymosa ssp. pumila

© Project SOUND

We hope you’ve gotten some ideas…

© Project SOUND

Photo: Griselda Sasayama

1/6/2013

33

© Project SOUND

Hillsides work well

for cacti & succulents

Promote plant health by providing good drainage

Allow the viewer to see/appreciate each species

A fire-wise alternative

Decrease challenges of watering steep slopes

http://www.casperlandscape.com/22_view.html © Project SOUND

From lawn to

succulent garden…

http://www.indahbulan.com/tantenbaum.html

© Project SOUND

We’ve come to the end of our

tour of Delightful Dudleyas

© Project SOUND