Overview
Dudleya candelabrum Rose is a beautiful, drought-tolerant succulent plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is a native of California, United States, and prefers rocky slopes and canyons with well-drained soil.
Common Names
Dudleya candelabrum Rose is commonly known by several names, including Candleholder Live-Forever, Candleholder Dudleya, Candlestick Live-Forever, and Candlestick Dudleya.
Appearance
Dudleya candelabrum Rose is a striking plant that can grow up to 1-3 feet tall and wide. It has fleshy, blue-green leaves that grow in a rosette formation, and the leaves can turn red or pink during periods of stress. The plant produces a tall inflorescence that can reach up to 6 feet tall and has pink to reddish flowers that bloom in the summer.
Uses
Dudleya candelabrum Rose is a popular ornamental plant that is widely used in xeriscapes and rock gardens. It is also used in traditional Native American medicine to treat various ailments, including wounds, fever, and rheumatism. Additionally, the plant has culinary applications, and its leaves and stems are sometimes used in salads or to garnish dishes.
Light Requirements
Dudleya candelabrum Rose requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. The plant should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. In areas with hot summers, some shade during the hottest part of the day can be beneficial.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in warm, dry climates. It is adapted to the hot summers and mild winters of its native California habitat. Dudleya candelabrum Rose can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C) but prefers temperatures between 60–85°F (15–29°C) for optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
Dudleya candelabrum Rose grows best in well-draining soil. The soil should be sandy or rocky, with good drainage to prevent waterlogged roots. The plant is adapted to coastal soils and can tolerate soils with low nutrient levels. A pH between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal for this plant.
Cultivation
Dudleya candelabrum Rose is a succulent plant that grows well in well-draining soil, preferably sandy or rocky soil, with full sun exposure. It is commonly seen growing on rocky outcrops and cliffs along the California coast. When cultivating indoors, ensure that the plant is getting enough light and is placed in a well-draining pot to avoid root rot.
Watering Needs
When watering Dudleya candelabrum Rose, ensure that the soil is dry before watering again. It is essential to avoid overwatering this plant, as it is used to growing in environments with minimal rainfall. Water sparingly during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Fertilization
Dudleya candelabrum Rose is an extremely low-maintenance plant that does not require much fertilization. However, it is good to supplement bi-weekly or monthly throughout the growing season with liquid fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength. Avoid fertilizing during the winter when the plant is dormant.
Pruning
Dudleya candelabrum Rose requires minimal pruning. Dead leaves or spent blooms can be removed occasionally with a sterilized pair of pruning shears. Be careful not to prune too much, as it can cause damage to the plant.
Propagation of Dudleya candelabrum Rose
Dudleya candelabrum Rose, commonly known as the candelabrum liveforever, is a resilient plant that can be propagated through several methods.
Seed Propagation
Candelabrum liveforever can be propagated from seeds. The seeds must be sown during the spring or early summer and kept in a well-draining, sandy soil. The seeds should be sown 1/16 to 1/8 inch deep and cover the pot with a thin layer of plastic until germination. The seedlings must be watered sparingly until they are established and moved to larger pots or the ground.
Leaf Cuttings
Dudleya candelabrum can be propagated through leaf cuttings. Select a healthy leaf and gently twist it off the stem. Allow the cuttings to callus for a week before planting them in sandy, well-draining soil. The cuttings must be inserted 1 to 1.5 inches deep in the soil and watered sparingly until they start producing roots and leaves.
Division
Candelabrum liveforever can also be propagated by dividing an established plant. Gently remove the plant from its pot or the ground and separate the individual offsets. Plant each division in well-draining, sandy soil and water sparingly until they are established.
Propagation of Dudleya candelabrum Rose can be done at any time of the year, though the success rate may vary depending on the method and climate. Whatever method is chosen, it is essential to use well-draining soil and provide adequate water without overwatering.
Disease and Pest Management of Dudleya candelabrum Rose
Dudleya candelabrum Rose is a succulent plant that is generally easy to grow and maintain. However, like all plants, it is vulnerable to pest infestations and diseases, which can affect its growth and appearance. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect Dudleya candelabrum Rose and ways to manage them.
Pests that affect Dudleya candelabrum Rose
1. Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from Dudleya candelabrum Rose, causing it to wilt and become stunted. To manage an aphid infestation, spray the plant with water and use insecticidal soap to kill the bugs.
2. Spider mites: These pests are common in dry, hot conditions and can be identified by small webs on the plant and yellowing leaves. To manage spider mites, keep the plant well-watered and mist it regularly. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the bugs.
3. Snails and slugs: These mollusks can eat large holes in Dudleya candelabrum Rose's leaves and flowers, causing significant damage. To manage a snail or slug infestation, handpick and remove the pests, and sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the plant to deter them.
Diseases that affect Dudleya candelabrum Rose
1. Root rot: This fungal disease is caused by overwatering and poor drainage and can cause the plant to wilt and rot. To manage root rot, remove the infected plant from the soil and cut away any rotten or damaged roots. Repot the plant in fresh soil with improved drainage.
2. Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a powdery-white coating on the plant's leaves and can cause them to wither and die. To manage powdery mildew, spray the plant with a fungicide containing potassium bicarbonate or neem oil.
3. Leaf spot: This bacterial disease causes black or brown spots on the plant's leaves and can cause them to fall off prematurely. To manage leaf spot, remove any infected leaves and avoid overhead watering, which can spread the disease.
By following these tips, you can keep your Dudleya candelabrum Rose healthy and free from pests and diseases.
