Dudleya gnoma is a rare species of succulent plant in the stonecrop family known by the common names munchkin liveforever and munchkin dudleya. It is characterized by its diminutive stature, small yellow flowers, and distinctive white rosettes. It is endemic to the eastern portion of Santa Rosa Island, one of the Channel Islands of California, where it is known from one population at the type locality, containing three colonies of plants.
Munchkin liveforever has moderate disease resistance and is more sensitive to humidity. It is prone to illness when humidity is high and is at risk of root rot during dormancy. In terms of care, Munchkin liveforever tolerates drought but requires more water during the growing season. Watering should be drastically reduced or stopped entirely while it is dormant. Munchkin liveforever is appropriate for growers with some experience, though it can be difficult to maintain, particularly during the dormant period. It is especially appropriate for those who can devote time to its care in the winter months.
How to keep Dudleya Gnoma.
Light
Munchkin liveforever comes from habitats with dappled light, such as the understory of forests or rocky sites that offer natural shade. It favors partial sun but can also tolerate full sun.
Temperature
Munchkin liveforever tolerates some heat but mainly does best and grows during cooler seasons, going dormant in summer. In very hot summer conditions, give it shade to prevent scorching from intense sunlight. Watering should be decreased or stopped during the hottest season to avoid root rot. It grows most vigorously in winter and spring. Provided the temperature does not fall too low, it will continue to grow steadily.
Fertilizer
Munchkin liveforever only needs light applications of fertilizer one to two times a year during the active growing season. Do not fertilize in winter or in summer when the plant is dormant. Use less fertilizer for plants that have been repotted, and wait a couple of months after repotting before you start feeding them. Fertilizing helps maintain healthy growth and promotes flowering.
Pot & Repot
When repotting Munchkin liveforever, choose a pot slightly larger than the current one that provides good drainage. Use a gritty, well-draining succulent or cactus mix. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, brush off excess soil, and set it in at the same depth. Wait a few days before watering to allow any root damage to heal. Repot in spring or fall and place it in a brightly lit spot.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Succulent
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Dudleya
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 5 cm to 10 cm
- Mature Spread
- 3 cm to 5 cm
- Leaf Color
- Light Green, Pale Green
- Leaf Type
- Semi-evergreen
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 1.52 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid spring, Late spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
