RHS giant chalk dudleya
A variable, perennial succulent forming a white to silver-grey solitary rosette to 30-45cm (12-18in) in diameter, with oblong to lanceolate, spoon-shaped leaves to 15-22.5cm (6-9in) long and 2.5-5cm (1-2in) wide. Pale yellow flowers are produced on a bright, reddish-pink stem, to 60- 90cm (24-36in) in late winter to spring
0.1-0.5 metres
0.1-0.5 metres
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Under glass, grow in sharply-draining, peat-free, loam-based compost with the addition of extra sharp sand, or use proprietary peat-free cactus compost. A position in full or slightly filtered light is preferred at all times. During active growth, water moderately and apply a low-nitrogen fertiliser once a month from March to the beginning of May and from late August to October, but cease feeding in the summer dormancy period, when water should be withheld. Feeding in the winter in UK under glass is not required owing to low daylight levels and similarly, watering should also be reduced
Propagate by seed at 16°C (61°F) in early spring or take stem cuttings from spring to summer
No pruning required
May be susceptible to mealybugs under glass
Generally disease-free, although may be susceptible to basal rots if watered out of season when dormant