Sempervivum tectorum, commonly known as Houseleek or Hens and Chicks, is a hardy and visually appealing succulent that forms tight rosettes of fleshy leaves. This resilient plant is cherished for its ease of growth, tolerance to neglect, and ability to thrive in challenging conditions, making it a popular choice for rock gardens, green roofs, and container arrangements.
 
Key Features of Sempervivum tectorum
Rosette Formation: The plant forms compact, symmetrical rosettes of fleshy leaves that resemble flowers.
Fleshy Leaves: The leaves are thick and green in color with burgandy pointed tips.
"Hens and Chicks" Growth: Mature rosettes (hens) produce numerous smaller offsets (chicks) around their base, which can eventually root and form new plants.
Flowering Stalk: Mature rosettes will eventually send up a tall stalk bearing clusters of star-shaped flowers, typically in shades of pink or purple. The flowering rosette then dies, but the surrounding chicks continue to grow.
Evergreen Nature: In many climates, the rosettes remain evergreen, providing year-round interest.
Hardiness: Known for its excellent tolerance to cold temperatures and drought.
 
Care for Your Sempervivum tectorum
Light: Requires full sun for optimal growth and color development.
Soil: Needs well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A sandy or gritty soil mix is ideal.
Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is the most common cause of failure
Temperature: Highly tolerant of a wide range of temperatures, including frost.
Humidity: Prefers low to moderate humidity.
 
Maintenance for a Thriving Plant
Removing Dead Rosettes: After a rosette flowers and dies, gently remove it to allow the surrounding chicks more space to grow.
Dividing Chicks: As the chicks mature and develop their own root systems, they can be separated from the mother plant and transplanted to new locations. This helps prevent overcrowding.
Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally resistant to most pests and diseases when grown in appropriate conditions.
Minimal Fertilization: Typically does not require fertilization. Over-fertilizing can lead to weak growth and poor coloration.
 
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
Offsets (Chicks): The easiest and most common method is by separating the rooted offsets from the mother plant. Gently detach the chicks and plant them in well-draining soil.
Leaf Cuttings: While possible, propagation from leaf cuttings can be less reliable and slower. Allow the cut end of a healthy leaf to callus over before placing it on well-draining soil.
Seeds: Can be grown from seeds, but this method is slower and may not produce plants identical to the parent cultivar.
 
Sempervivum tectorum is a resilient and visually appealing succulent that offers year-round interest with its unique rosette formations and the charming "hens and chicks" propagation. Its adaptability and low-maintenance nature make it a rewarding choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.