Family: Crassulaceae
Author: (Lindl.) Britton & Rose
Bibliography: Bull. New York Bot. Gard. 3: 15 (1903)
Year: 1903
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Dudleya
Vegetable: False
Observations: SW. Oregon to NW. & WC. California
Description
Powdery liveforever, scientifically known as Dudleya farinosa, is a remarkable succulent belonging to the Crassulaceae family. This resilient plant can be predominantly found from southwestern Oregon to the northwestern and west-central regions of California. It thrives in coastal environments, often gracing rocky cliffs and bluffs with its presence.
Dudleya farinosa is recognized for its distinctive rosette of fleshy, powdery leaves which exhibit a silvery hue accentuated by a fine layer of white, waxy powder. This powdery coating, known as farina, plays a crucial role in reducing water loss and protecting the plant from intense sun exposure. The aesthetic appeal of its leaves makes powdery liveforever a popular choice among succulent enthusiasts and gardeners aiming to add a touch of coastal flora to their collections.
When in bloom, Dudleya farinosa produces tall, slender stalks that bear clusters of small, star-shaped flowers. These blossoms range in color from pale yellow to bright yellow, providing a striking contrast against the plant’s silvery foliage. The flowering period typically occurs in spring and early summer, drawing pollinators such as bees and butterflies to its charming blooms.
Powdery liveforever is not just a visual delight but also a testament to nature’s adaptability, flourishing in some of the toughest coastal conditions where few other plants can survive. Due to its hardy nature and unique appearance, it has been a subject of interest since its detailed description was first documented in the Bulletin of the New York Botanical Garden in 1903 by Britton & Rose, with initial classification by Lindl.
This succulent’s ability to withstand drought and poor soils makes it an excellent candidate for xeriscaping and rock gardens. For those looking to cultivate Dudleya farinosa, providing well-draining soil and ample sunlight will ensure its healthy growth. Additionally, it’s important to emulate its native habitat by avoiding overwatering, which could lead to root rot.
In summary, powdery liveforever (Dudleya farinosa) is a fascinating species with significant ecological and ornamental value. Its presence along the North American Pacific coast showcases the beauty and resilience of native succulent flora.
Common Names
Swe: mjölrosett
Eng: powdery liveforever
En: Powdery liveforever, Sea-cliff Stonecrop
Sv: Mjölrosett
Synonyms
- Echeveria lingula ((S.Watson) A.Nelson & J.F.Macbr.)
- Echeveria septentrionalis ((Rose) A.Berger)
- Cotyledon farinosa (Baker)
- Cotyledon farinulenta ((Lem.) Hemsl.)
- Dudleya lingula ((S.Watson) Britton & Rose)
- Dudleya septentrionalis (Rose)
- Dudleya eastwoodiae (Rose)
- Echeveria farinulenta (Lem.)
- Echeveria eastwoodiae ((Rose) A.Berger)
- Echeveria compacta ((Rose) A.Berger)
- Cotyledon lingula (S.Watson)
- Echeveria farinosa (Lindl.)
- Dudleya compacta (Rose)
Distribution
- California (native)
- Oregon (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Mar 23, 2021 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 21, 2022 by Johnny Poppyseed (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 1, 2021 by Richardson Paul (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2985888)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:85582-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Dudleya farinosa (Lindl.) Britton & Rose)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
