Characterized by a tall inflorescence with pendant yellowish-red flowers, it is a very rare plant whose existence was doubtful until botanist Reid Moran accidentally re-discovered it.

Reid Moran inferred that based on the name of the collector, rigida must have originated somewhere in the Cape Region or the surrounding islands and mountains.

Initially confused about the accidental discovery of a Dudleya on the 1900 meter high Cerro la Aguja, Moran recalled the existence of the Walpole plate and made the connection.

[2] Moran managed to obtain more information about McLellan's journey to the cape, as an ornithologist with the USFWS sent him the handwritten notes, which mentioned that he had also explored the area near the Cerro la Aguja.

[2] Dudleya rigida is native to the Sierra de la Laguna, growing on rocky outcroppings alongside Agave promontorii, Nolina beldingii, and Myrtillocactus cochal.