Dudleya brittonii
Britton's dudleya Β· Giant chalk dudleya
Description
Source: leafsnapDudleya brittonii, with the common names Britton's dudleya, Britton's liveforever and giant chalk dudleya, is a succulent plant in the family Crassulaceae. It is native to the coast of northern Baja California, Mexico. Both forms of the plant have yellow leaves on a clustered rosette atop a large reddish-purple peduncle. The white form of the plant has a chalky epicuticular wax that reflects light and reacts with water. The green form of the plant is more common and found throughout a wider range. It is among the largest of the Dudleya.
Care Guide
π§ Water Every 2-3 weeks
The giant chalk dudleya is well-suited to arid environments, demonstrating impressive drought resistance with its water-storing succulent leaves. It should be watered every 2-3 weeks, making sure the soil is allowed to dry out between waterings. This plant thrives in full sunlight and particularly benefits from its growing season, which boosts its capacity to store water for use during drier times.
What do I do if I give too much or too little water to my Giant chalk dudleya plant?
Giant chalk dudleya and other succulents are typically able to survive without water for long periods of time. However, if you forget to water your Giant chalk dudleya for a month or more, you will likely notice signs of thirst or damage. An underwatered Giant chalk dudleya may appear lackluster and wrinkled, with some leaves dried up or turning brown and crispy. The soil will also be completely dried out. To remedy this, give the plant plenty of water by submerging the pot in water for 5-10 minutes until you feel moisture on the soil's surface. Overwatering is harmful to Giant chalk dudleya and can even be fatal if not addressed. Excessive moisture leads to root rot, which prevents the roots from absorbing nutrients and water from the soil. Root rot occurs when fungi and bacteria thrive in wet conditions and feed on the roots. Overwatered plants may exhibit yellow, swollen, and translucent leaves that may burst open from too much water. In severe cases, the plant may turn brown or black and easily fall off. Check the soil to confirm if overwatering is the issue, as other problems can cause similar symptoms. Unfortunately, saving an overwatered plant can be difficult, but catching it early can prevent extensive damage. If the roots are rotten, the entire plant may die. If overwatering is suspected, remove the plant from its pot and examine the roots and soil. Gently remove wet soil and rinse the roots in room-temperature water to remove any fungus. Examine the roots for signs of root rot, such as dark brown or black, soft, mushy, or slimy texture. If most of the roots are affected, it may not be possible to save the plant. In this case, remove any healthy stems and use them to propagate a new plant. However, if only a portion of the roots are affected, there is a chance to save it. Remove unhealthy roots using sterile cutting tools and dip the remaining healthy roots in fungicide. Repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil. While not guaranteed, the plant will likely recover and produce new growth in the next growing season.
How much water does my Giant chalk dudleya need and how often?
Determining how often to water Giant chalk dudleya is not a specific rule. The easiest way to figure it out is by checking the soil and only watering when it is completely dry. To check, you can either use your finger or a moisture meter to assess the soil beneath the surface. If you have planted it in a deep pot, a stick or chopstick can be used for this purpose. If the soil feels slightly damp, it is best to wait a few days and check again. Typically, most people will need to water Giant chalk dudleya every two weeks during the summer and once a month in winter. However, there are various factors that may affect the watering frequency. The following section provides some considerations to help determine how often to water.
What do I need to think about when watering my Giant chalk dudleya?
To properly water your Giant chalk dudleya, there are several environmental conditions to consider. These include the size of the container, type of soil, temperature, and humidity. When choosing a container, make sure it has sufficient drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. A smaller container holds less moisture and will need to be watered more frequently, while a larger pot retains moisture longer and requires less frequent watering. Avoid using an oversized pot, as this can lead to overwatering. When repotting, move to a container that is only slightly larger than the current one. It is also beneficial to use a shallow container, as Giant chalk dudleya has shallow roots. The watering frequency should be adjusted based on the seasons. During winter, when growth slows down and less water is lost to evaporation, Giant chalk dudleya needs to be watered less often. In contrast, during the active growing seasons of spring and autumn, more frequent watering is necessary. Additionally, the general climate of your location should be taken into account. If you live in a humid area with frequent rainfall, you will need to water less often compared to a dry and arid climate. Remember that even within the same geographic location, conditions can vary throughout different seasons and due to indoor heating and cooling. When planted in the ground, Giant chalk dudleya typically does not require additional watering once its root system is established. It will rely on natural precipitation and dew. However, during extended dry periods, occasional watering may be necessary. If growing in a container, it can be moved outdoors during suitable temperatures in spring and summer, and brought back inside when temperatures begin to drop. Keep in mind that potted Giant chalk dudleya exposed to the outdoors will generally require more water due to increased sun exposure, even if placed on a shaded porch.
How should I water a Giant chalk dudleya?
To properly water Giant chalk dudleya, it is best to thoroughly soak the plant and then allow it to dry out before watering again. This plant is somewhat drought tolerant, so it is better to underwater than overwater. When watering, ensure that the entire pot's soil gets soaked by evenly pouring water around the rim of the planter. The amount of water needed will depend on the container size and soil absorption. After watering, let the excess water drain out from the drainage holes and leave it in the saucer for about 20-30 minutes to absorb into dry areas of the soil. Discard any remaining water in the saucer to prevent waterlogging. Bottom-watering is also effective, where the pot is placed in a saucer of water and absorbs moisture through the drainage holes. It is important to check if the top layer of soil is moist to know if enough water has been absorbed. This method takes more time but ensures even distribution of water. The original habitat of Giant chalk dudleya is dry with infrequent rain. To mimic this, bottom-water the plant when the soil is completely dry. It is better to thoroughly water the soil rather than frequently watering lightly.
βοΈ Light Full sun
Giant chalk dudleya favors considerable sunlight, closely reflecting the conditions of its native habitat. Insufficient light can hinder its growth, while excessive exposure may cause it to dry out. It is important that every stage of growth receives enough light for the plant to reach its full potential.
How much sunlight does the Giant chalk dudleya need to grow?
Giant chalk dudleya plants thrive in sunlight and should ideally receive at least 6 hours of sun each day. The actual number of hours may vary depending on the intensity of sunlight and other environmental factors, but it is unlikely for them to receive too much sunlight. In fact, they can tolerate up to 14 hours of sun per day without any issues.
What kind of sunlight does Giant chalk dudleya need?
Giant chalk dudleya thrive in bright sunlight. They are full-sun plants and can do well with direct light or bright indirect sun. While some varieties may tolerate partial sun, they generally prefer more sunlight.
Do I need to keep Giant chalk dudleya out of the sun?
Giant chalk dudleya is a type of plant that thrives in extremely hot and sunny places. It is well-suited to this type of environment, so it doesn't require protection from the sun. However, if you want to move your Giant chalk dudleya to a very sunny location, it's important to be cautious. Plants need time to adjust to new conditions, so it's best to start by gradually exposing the plant to the sun for a couple of hours a day. Then, you can gradually increase the amount of time it spends in the sun. Once the plant has adapted, most types of Giant chalk dudleya will be able to tolerate full sun without needing any additional protection.
What will happen if the Giant chalk dudleya doesn't get enough sunlight?
Giant chalk dudleya plants require sufficient sunlight in order to thrive and grow. Not getting enough sunlight can result in various symptoms, such as pale coloring, wilting leaves, and leaf drop. Another sign is when the plant becomes leggy, or etiolated, as it stretches towards the light source. This can cause the plant to look sparse and have weak stems.
What happens if Giant chalk dudleya gets too much sunlight?
During the summer, giant chalk dudleya plants can develop shades of red, pink, or orange to protect themselves from excessive sunlight. To mimic this stress, many people intentionally expose these plants to mild sun stress. This is harmless and the plants will go back to their normal colors when the amount of sunlight decreases in autumn to spring. However, if giant chalk dudleya plants are quickly placed in direct sun, they can get sunburned. Sunburn manifests as white or brown spots on the uppermost leaves that were exposed to the most sunlight. In such cases, it's important to move the sunburned plant to a shadier spot and provide water if necessary. To promote new growth, any sun-damaged leaves can be removed. Over time, new growth should replace the damaged leaves.
π‘οΈ Temperature 20β37.8Β°C
Giant chalk dudleya is naturally grown in settings where temperatures range from 68 to 100.4 Β°F (20 to 38 β). This range provides the most comfortable and favorable conditions for its growth. If temperatures fall or rise markedly beyond this range, consider adjusting the plant's surroundings.
What temperature is best for your Giant chalk dudleya?
The Giant chalk dudleya thrives in a specific range of conditions. The best temperatures for this plant are between 75-90β (25-32β). It's important to avoid letting the temperature drop below 75β(25β) during early winter. To provide better protection from extreme temperatures, you can move the plant indoors. Although the Giant chalk dudleya can survive in some extreme temperatures, it is not ideal for it to be exposed to low temperatures like 50β (15β). If winter conditions are expected outside, it is recommended to bring the plant indoors to ensure its well-being.
How do I change the temperature for my Giant chalk dudleya as it grows?
The giant chalk dudleya plant goes through different growing phases. First, the dormant seed grows into a seedling. To properly germinate, the dormant seeds require specific conditions in their surroundings, such as a temperature of 75-90β (25-32β). For optimal growth, it is recommended to cultivate the plant during the summer when the temperature is around 85β (30β). During this time, you can move the plant from indoors to a sunny location to ensure it receives enough sunlight.
How do I make sure my Giant chalk dudleya stays warm during the cold seasons?
To ensure the well-being of your Giant chalk dudleya during the winter, it's suggested to bring them indoors to protect them from harsh conditions. Some people choose to use grow lights to provide adequate sunlight, but if your home is not excessively dark, buying these lights may not be necessary. Instead, place your plants in areas where they can receive the most natural sunlight possible. This should be enough light to keep the Giant chalk dudleya thriving throughout winter. If you have multiple plants, rotate their positions to ensure they all receive sufficient sunlight. However, if you live in a northern area with freezing weather, avoid placing your Giant chalk dudleya too close to the window as the extreme cold can cause damage to the plants.
What happens to my Giant chalk dudleya when it gets too hot or too cold?
Your Giant chalk dudleya thrives in warm temperatures around 90β (32β) during the summer, but it is important to shield it from extreme heat. In the winter, it is best to keep your plant dry. Giant chalk dudleya prefers temperatures between 75-90β (25-32β) in temperate climates. However, exposing them to extreme temperatures can stress the plants. While temperatures ranging from 90β to 95β (32-35β) can enhance the vibrant colors of the Giant chalk dudleya, caution is advised when experimenting with this. During hot summer days, the excessively high temperatures can scorch your Giant chalk dudleya, potentially harming the stem and root system. To protect your plant, consider moving it to a shaded area or use a shade cloth during the hottest part of the day.
How do I change the temperature for my Giant chalk dudleya in different seasons?
During the summer, the high temperatures can slow down the growth of Giant chalk dudleya as they struggle to survive in extreme heat. However, when cooler periods and rainfall arrive, the Giant chalk dudleya starts to grow again. If you live in an area with hot summers, warm winters, and regular rainfall, you don't need to make any changes. But if you live in a place with cold winters, it's best to let your Giant chalk dudleya grow more in the summer and rest in the winter. This is because there isn't enough sunlight for them to grow during the winter months. If you live in a cold climate, you can help your Giant chalk dudleya go into dormancy by lowering the temperature to 50β to 75β (15β to 25β).
π¨ Humidity
πͺ΄ Soil 6-7
π± Fertilizer
Light fertilizer applications once or twice a year during the growing season are sufficient for Giant chalk dudleya. Do not fertilize in winter or summer when the plant is dormant. Reduce fertilizer for plants that have been repotted and wait a couple of months after repotting before applying fertilizer. Fertilizing helps maintain healthy growth and encourages blooms.
Why should I put plant food on my Giant chalk dudleya?
Fertilizing Giant chalk dudleya is beneficial as it adds nutrients to the growing medium. Despite its ability to store water and nutrients, applying plant food during the growing season promotes healthy growth and can even stimulate mature specimens to produce blooms.
When should I fertilize my Giant chalk dudleya for best results?
Giant chalk dudleya plants need some extra nutrients, but they only require a small amount of fertilizer during the growing season. It is recommended to fertilize them 1-2 times a year, specifically in the spring and autumn. Avoid fertilizing them in the winter and summer when they are dormant. If you have recently repotted your plants, be cautious with the amount of fertilizer you use. It is best to wait a few months after repotting before applying any fertilizer.
When is the best time to not use fertilizer on my Giant chalk dudleya?
Giant chalk dudleya, like most plants, has a dormancy period where growth slows down. To ensure optimal care, it's best to refrain from fertilizing during this time. This period occurs during the summer and winter, as well as for a couple of months after repotting in the spring.
What kind of fertilizer should I use for my Giant chalk dudleya?
When fertilizing Giant chalk dudleya, it's recommended to use a liquid plant food specifically made for succulents and cacti. To prevent the fertilizer from accumulating in the soil, dilute it with water to half-strength. Apply the fertilizer at the base of the plant, and make sure to water thoroughly. Ensure any excess moisture drains from the container or seeps into the ground.
How can I make my Giant chalk dudleya grow better?
When fertilizing Giant chalk dudleya, you have two options: liquid plant food or granules. If you choose liquid plant food, make sure to dilute it to half-strength according to the instructions on the packaging. Regardless of which type you use, always apply it to the soil. For granules, cover them with a thin layer of soil and water.
πͺ΄ Pot & Repot Every 2 years
For the giant chalk dudleya, repot the plant every two years in the spring. Use a container that is just slightly larger than the plant's current spread. After repotting, place the plant in bright, indirect light, and water it sparingly. This approach encourages strong root growth and aids in recovery.
βοΈ Pruning
To help large succulent plants, such as the giant chalk dudleya, keep their shape, it's important to prune them in the spring and fall. Remove any redundant or densely packed branches during this time. If you want to propagate the plant, cut a sturdy stem that has 5 to 6 leaves. Treat the cut end with sulfur powder, and wait for it to heal before planting it. Make sure the soil is slightly moist when you plant the cutting.
πΏ Propagating
π Diseases & pets
β οΈ Toxicity
Characteristics
- Plant Type
- Succulent
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Dudleya
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 61 cm
- Mature Spread
- 40 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, White, Bronze
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Flower Size
- 2.54 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall
- Native Area
- Mexico