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Sempervivum (sem-per-vye-vum), houseleeks, liveforever and, hen and chicks; Crassulaceae Family. Sempervivum are evergreen perennials of the Old World, consisting of a rootstock topped by a tight cluster of mostly incurving, fleshy leaves, forming an almost globular rosette. Short runners, growing out from the root, terminate in smaller duplicates of the central leaf tuft. Clusters of white, pink yellow or purple flowers on stems grow out of the centers of the leaf rosettes. Sempervivum succeed in any well-drained, moderately fertile soil, preferably in full sun, although most kinds will tolerate light shade. Primarily grown for their foliage, they make good plants for rock gardens and are particularly suitable for narrow rock crevices and chinks dry walls as long as there is enough soil to accommodate the roots.

Easy to grow in full sun to partial shade, and well-drained soil. While they are adaptable to a variety of soil types, they will do best in coarse, sandy soil. Although Semervivums can tolerate frosty conditions, excessive watering, fertilizer or humidity may cause rot.

Plant in rock gardens, alpine gardens, troughs and containers. Though hens will die after flowering, they will produce numerous chicks to take their place. To propagate, simply split off the chickens from the parent plant and transplant them. Providing contact with the soil should be sufficient for transplanting, since Sempervivum root readily. If a groundcover effect is desired, space plants close together because they grow slowly. Deer and Rabbit resistant.

Attributes: Border plants, Containers, Evergreen, Ground cover, Salt Tolerant, Small / Miniature, Easy to grow.

Sempervivum

Sempervivum 'Black' (10)ct Flat

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Sempervivum

Sempervivum 'Black' (25) BR Plants

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Sempervivum

Sempervivum 'Jade Rose' (10)ct Flat

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Sempervivum

Sempervivum 'Killer' (25) BR Plants

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Sempervivum

Sempervivum 'Pacific Blue Ice' (25) BR Plants

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Sempervivum

Sempervivum 'Pilioseum' (25) BR Plants

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Sempervivum

Sempervivum 'Purple Beauty' (25) BR Plants

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Sempervivum

Sempervivum 'Ruby Heart' (25) BR Plants

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Sempervivum

Sempervivum 'Silverine' (25) BR Plants

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Sempervivum

Sempervivum (25) BR Plants Assorted

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Sempervivum

Sempervivum 'Black' (10)ct Flat

Sempervivum 'Black' Latin translation: Semper means forever and vivo means live. Which is why Grandma called them 'live forevers' or 'always living'. a/k/a: Houseleeks, Hens and Chicks. Growth Height: 4 to 6 inches tall, 8 to 112 inch spread. Zone:...

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Sempervivum

Sempervivum 'Black' (25) BR Plants

Sempervivum 'Black' (25) Bare Root Plants Latin translation: Semper means forever and vivo means live. Which is why Grandma called them 'live forevers' or 'always living'. a/k/a: Houseleeks, Hens and Chicks. Growth Height: 4 to 6 inches tall, 8 to 112...

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Sempervivum

Sempervivum 'Jade Rose' (10)ct Flat

Sempervivum 'Jade Rose' Latin translation: Semper means forever and vivo means live. Which is why Grandma called them 'live forevers' or 'always living'. a/k/a: Houseleeks, Hens and Chicks. Growth Height: 4 to 6 inches tall, 8 to 12 inch spread. ...

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Sempervivum

Sempervivum 'Killer' (25) BR Plants

Sempervivum 'Killer' (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Hen & Chicks, Houseleek Large 5" rosettes of symmetrical succulents leaves make a "killer" first impression. Maroon centers transition to green tips. Sempervivum is comprised of one large rosette...

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Sempervivum

Sempervivum 'Pacific Blue Ice' (25) BR Plants

Sempervivum 'Pacific Blue Ice' (25) Bare Root PlantssCommon Name: Hen & Chicks, Houseleek Sempervivum is comprised of one large rosette called the "hen" which sprouts many smaller rosettes around it called "chicks". As the plants age, the "hen" may...

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Sempervivum

Sempervivum 'Pilioseum' (25) BR Plants

Sempervivum 'Pilioseum' Common Name: Houseleeks, Hens and Chicks. 'Pilioseum' forms medium to large rosettes of grey-green leaves. This color may vary from season to season. These rosettes have a rounded, semi-loose form. Sempervivum is comprised of one...

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Sempervivum

Sempervivum 'Purple Beauty' (25) BR Plants

Sempervivum 'Purple Beauty' (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Hen & Chicks, Houseleek 'Purple Beauty' sports medium sized, semi-open rosettes of succulent leaves with deep purple tips and green centers. This color may vary from season to season...

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Sempervivum

Sempervivum 'Ruby Heart' (25) BR Plants

Sempervivum 'Ruby Heart' (25) Bare Root PlantssCommon Name: Hen & Chicks, Houseleek This selection forms rosettes of sharply pointed, silvery blue to blue-green leaves which are flushed rosy red at the base. This color varies by season, intensifying...

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Sempervivum

Sempervivum 'Silverine' (25) BR Plants

Sempervivum 'Silverine' (25) Bare Root PlantssCommon Name: Hen & Chicks, Houseleek Forms rosettes of sharply pointed, silvery green leaves which are flushed with reddish-purple at the base. This color may vary from season to season. Unique deep pink...

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Sempervivum

Sempervivum (25) BR Plants Assorted

Sempervivum Assorted plants (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Houseleeks, Hens and Chicks. An unnamed assortment. Shipper's choice. Plants send out many offspring, forming a dense colony. The parent rosettes are the hens, and the smaller...

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What are the benefits of planting Sempervivum?

Sempervivums, also known as houseleeks, are popular succulent plants that offer a multitude of benefits for gardeners of all levels. Here are some of the key advantages of planting these versatile beauties:

Low maintenance:

Sempervivums are renowned for their easy-going nature. They require minimal watering, making them ideal for busy gardeners or those living in drought-prone areas. Once established, they can thrive on neglect, tolerating periods of dryness and harsh weather conditions.

Drought tolerance:

Their succulent leaves store water, allowing them to withstand dry spells without wilting. This makes them perfect for xeriscaping, a water-wise landscaping approach that conserves water.

Adaptability:

Sempervivums are happy in various light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate a wide range of soil types, as long as it is well-draining. This adaptability allows them to flourish in various garden settings, from rock gardens to containers.

Visual appeal:

With their diverse rosette shapes, vibrant colors (ranging from greens and reds to purples and silvers), and interesting textures, Sempervivums add pops of color and visual interest to any landscape. They form attractive clusters that spread over time, creating a charming groundcover effect.

Pest and disease resistance:

Sempervivums are pest and disease-resistant, further reducing the need for maintenance and chemical applications. This makes them an eco-friendly choice for gardens.

Wildlife friendly:

The flowers of Sempervivums attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to a healthy ecosystem.

Easy propagation:

Sempervivums are incredibly easy to propagate. You can simply divide offsets (baby plants) that form around the mother plant and replant them elsewhere. This allows you to expand your collection or share these low-maintenance beauties with friends and family.

Overall, Sempervivums offer a plethora of benefits, making them a valuable addition to any garden. Their low maintenance requirements, drought tolerance, adaptability, and visual appeal make them perfect for gardeners of all experience levels.

What are the characteristics of Sempervivum?

Distinctive Characteristics of Sempervivum:

Sempervivums, also known as houseleeks, boast a unique combination of traits that make them stand out in the plant world. Here is a closer look at their key characteristics:

Rosette Formation: Their most recognizable feature is their compact, rosette-shaped growth pattern. Each rosette consists of fleshy, overlapping leaves that radiate outwards from a central point. This arrangement helps conserve water and protects the plant from harsh elements.

Diverse Leaf Shapes and Colors: While many have pointed, oval leaves, the shapes and colors vary widely across species and cultivars. You will find varieties with smooth, hairy, or cobweb-like textures, in shades of green, red, purple, and even silver.

Succulent Leaves: Their thick, fleshy leaves are adapted to store water, allowing them to thrive in dry conditions and survive periods of drought.

Compact Size: Most Sempervivums are small, typically reaching only 4-8 inches in height and spread. This makes them ideal for rock gardens, container plantings, and other space-saving applications.

Star-Shaped Flowers: In summer, they produce clusters of star-shaped flowers on slender stalks that rise above the rosettes. The flowers come in various shades of red, pink, yellow, or white, adding another layer of interest to the plant.

Easy Propagation: These plants readily reproduce through offsets, baby plantlets that form around the mother rosette. You can easily detach and replant these offsets to create new plants.

Cold Hardiness: Many Sempervivum varieties are incredibly cold-hardy, surviving freezing temperatures and even snow cover. This makes them well-suited for colder climates.

Low Maintenance: They require minimal care, needing well-draining soil and occasional watering, especially during hot, dry periods. They are pest and disease resistant, further reducing maintenance needs.

Slow Growth: While this can be seen as a benefit for low maintenance, keep in mind that they are slow-growing plants. Do not expect them to rapidly fill large spaces.

By understanding these characteristics, you can appreciate the unique appeal of Sempervivums and determine if they are the right fit for your garden.

How do I plant a Sempervivum?

Planting a Sempervivum is quite simple! Here is a step-by-step guide:

Choosing a Location:

Sunlight: Most Sempervivums thrive in full sun, with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Some varieties tolerate partial shade, but their vibrant colors may be less intense.
Soil: Well-draining soil is crucial. Choose a gritty mix suitable for cacti and succulents. You can find ready-made mixes or create your own by combining equal parts potting mix, sand, and perlite. Avoid using heavy clay soil, as it retains too much moisture, which can damage the roots.

Planting:

Prepare the pot or planting site: Ensure your chosen container or garden bed has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Fill it with the prepared well-draining soil mixture.
Remove the Sempervivum from its current pot: Gently loosen the soil around the roots and carefully remove the plant.
Planting depth: Plant the Sempervivum at the same level it was growing in its previous pot. Avoid burying the stem or base of the rosette too deeply.
Firm the soil: Gently press the soil around the base of the plant to secure it.
Watering: Water the newly planted Sempervivum thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes. Allow the soil to dry completely before watering again.

Additional Tips:

Spacing: When planting multiple Sempervivums together, leave enough space between them for each plant to spread and form its unique rosette shape.
Topdressing: Apply a thin layer of gravel or crushed stones around the base of the plant to help with drainage and add visual interest.
Watering: After the initial watering, water sparingly. Sempervivums are drought-tolerant and prefer dry soil to consistently moist conditions. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Propagation: As mentioned earlier, Sempervivums readily produce offsets. You can easily detach these little plantlets and use them to create new plants.

Remember: These are just general guidelines. Specific care requirements may vary slightly depending on the Sempervivum variety you choose. With a little attention and the right conditions, your Sempervivum will thrive and reward you with its unique beauty and low-maintenance charm.

What are varieties of Sempervivum?

There are over forty species of Sempervivum, and many more cultivars and hybrids, offering a wide variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and textures to choose from. Here are some popular and interesting varieties to consider:

Common Houseleek (Sempervivum tectorum):

A classic and cold-hardy variety with green rosettes that turn reddish-purple in the sun.
Grows up to six inches tall and eight inches wide.
Easy to care for and propagate readily.

Cobweb Houseleek (Sempervivum arachnoideum):

Features delicate white webbing across its green rosettes, resembling a spiderweb.
Grows up to four inches tall and six inches wide.
Prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

Red Roof (Sempervivumtectorum 'Rubrum'):

Vibrant burgundy rosettes that add a bold pop of color to any garden.
Grows up to six inches tall and eight inches wide.
Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.

Bronze Beauty (Sempervivum calcareum 'Bronze'):

Large, coppery-bronze rosettes with lime green tips.
Grows up to eight inches tall and twelve inches wide.
Prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

Silver Blob (Sempervivum tectorum 'Silver Blob'):

Unique gray-green rosettes with a frosted appearance.
Grows up to four inches tall and six inches wide.
Prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

Hen and Chicks (Sempervivum globiferum):

Forms clusters of small, green rosettes with red edges.
Grows up to four inches tall and six inches wide.
Easy to care for and produces many offsets.

Black Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum tectorum 'Nigrum'):

Deep purple to almost black rosettes that add a dramatic touch to the garden.
Grows up to six inches tall and eight inches wide.
Prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

Kalmthout Giant (Sempervivum calcareum 'Kalmthout Giant'):

Large, lime green rosettes with burgundy tips.
Grows up to ten inches tall and twelve inches wide.
Makes a stunning statement piece in any garden.

Jolly Joker (Sempervivum tectorum 'Jolly Joker'):

Variegated rosettes with green, yellow, and red markings.
Grows up to four inches tall and six inches wide.
Adds a touch of whimsy to the garden.

Pinwheel (Sempervivum tectorum 'Pinwheel'):

Unique spiral-shaped rosettes with green and red markings.
Grows up to four inches tall and six inches wide.
A conversation starter in any garden.

These are just a few examples of the many fascinating Sempervivum varieties available. With their diverse range of colors, textures, and sizes, there is sure to be a perfect Sempervivum for your garden.

How Do I Care For a Sempervivum?

Sempervivums, also known as hens and chicks, are popular succulents known for their low-maintenance nature and vibrant rosettes. Caring for them is quite simple, but here is a quick guide to ensure your Sempervivum thrives:

Light:

Most Sempervivums prefer full sun, ideally at least 6-8 hours daily. Some varieties tolerate partial shade, but their colors might be less intense.
Avoid placing them in constant shade or areas with limited sunlight.

Soil:

Well-draining soil is crucial! Use a cactus or succulent mix, or create your own by combining equal parts potting mix, sand, and perlite.
Avoid heavy clay soil that retains too much moisture, as it can damage the roots.

Watering:

Sempervivums are drought-tolerant and dislike soggy soil.
Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry. This means letting the soil dry out completely between waterings, especially during cooler months.
Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Consider bottom watering by placing the pot in a container filled with water and letting it soak up the water from the bottom. This helps prevent water from pooling around the base of the plant.

Temperature:

Most Sempervivums tolerate cold temperatures quite well, down to freezing in some varieties.
However, protect them from harsh winter conditions with frost cloth or by bringing them indoors if necessary.
They prefer moderate temperatures in summer, ideally below 85°F (29°C).

Fertilizing:

Generally, fertilizing is not necessary for Sempervivums. In fact, too much fertilizer can harm them.
If you feel your soil is particularly nutrient-deficient, you can use a diluted liquid fertilizer specifically formulated for cacti and succulents once during the growing season (spring or summer).

Additional Care:

Offsets: Sempervivums readily produce offsets (baby plants) around the mother rosette. You can easily detach and repot these to create new plants.
Deadheading: After flowering, you can remove the spent flower stalk to encourage the plant to focus its energy on producing new growth.
Pests and diseases: Sempervivums are pest and disease resistant. However, keep an eye out for mealybugs or aphids, and treat them with insecticidal soap if necessary.

Remember, these are general guidelines. Specific care requirements may vary slightly depending on the Sempervivum variety you have. With a little attention and the right conditions, your Sempervivum will surely reward you with its beauty and low-maintenance charm!

Does Sempervivum attract pollinators?

Sempervivum flowers do attract pollinators like bees and butterflies! Here is what makes them pollinator-friendly:

Blooming Time: Most Sempervivum varieties bloom in summer, coinciding with the peak activity period for many pollinators.
Flower Shape: Their star-shaped flowers have open faces and easily accessible nectarines, making them readily available to pollinators seeking food.
Color: While colors vary across species, many Sempervivums boast vibrant blooms in shades of pink, red, yellow, and white, which are known to attract pollinators.
Fragrance: While not all Sempervivum varieties release a strong scent, some do have a subtly sweet fragrance that can further entice pollinators.
Pollen: Although light and small, Sempervivum pollen still provides a valuable food source for bees and other pollinators.
Overall Plant Structure: The compact rosette formation of Sempervivum leaves often creates small pockets of sheltered microclimates that can be attractive to some pollinator species seeking refuge or nesting sites.

However, it is important to note that the attractiveness of Sempervivum to pollinators can vary depending on several factors:

Species and variety: Some varieties bloom more profusely or have stronger color and scent, making them more enticing to pollinators.
Local pollinator populations: The specific types of pollinators present in your area will determine to which plants they are most drawn.
Planting location: Placing Sempervivum in areas with full sun and good air circulation can enhance their visibility and accessibility to pollinators.
Competition from other flowering plants: If surrounded by plants with bigger, showier blooms, Sempervivum might attract fewer pollinators.

While Sempervivum might not be the biggest pollinator magnet on its own, planting them alongside other pollinator-friendly flowers can create a diverse and vibrant garden ecosystem that benefits a wide range of pollinators. By adding these hardy, low-maintenance succulents to your garden, you can contribute to a healthy environment for both plants and pollinators.

Are There Any Common Pests Or Diseases That Affect Sempervivum?

Sempervivums are resistant to pests and diseases, making them low-maintenance plants. However, there are a few exceptions you should be aware of:

Pests:

Mealybugs: These small, cottony-looking insects suck the sap from plants. Inspect your Sempervivum regularly and remove mealybugs with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap.
Aphids: These tiny, soft-bodied insects also feed on plant sap. You can blast them off with a strong jet of water, use insecticidal soap, or introduce ladybug predators.
Vine weevils: These beetles lay eggs in the soil, and the larvae can damage the roots of your Sempervivum. Look for signs of adult weevils at night and use traps or hand-picking to remove them.

Diseases:

Crown rot: This fungal disease causes the stem and base of the plant to rot and turn mushy. It is usually caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. Ensure your Sempervivum has well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Remove and dispose of infected plants.
Rust disease: This fungal disease causes orange or brown spots on the leaves. Improve air circulation around your plants and remove infected leaves. Fungicide sprays can be used in severe cases.

Other Potential Issues:

Sunburn: While most Sempervivums prefer full sun, intense heat and lack of air circulation can cause sunburn, especially on young plants. Provide afternoon shade or mist the leaves periodically during hot spells.
Rotting: Overwatering or poorly drained soil can cause the roots to rot. Ensure your Sempervivum has drainage and only water when the soil is completely dry.

By providing proper care and promptly addressing any issues, you can help your Sempervivum thrive and remain pest and disease-free. Enjoy these fascinating and low-maintenance succulents in your garden!

Can I Use Sempervivum in Floral Arrangements?

Yes, you can use Sempervivum in floral arrangements, but with some considerations and limitations:

Pro:

Unique Textures and Colors: Sempervivums offer unique textures and colors that can add visual interest and variety to arrangements. The rosettes come in various shapes, sizes, and vibrant hues like green, red, purple, and silver, creating a distinctive contrast to traditional cut flowers.
Long-lasting: Unlike cut flowers with short lifespans, Sempervivum rosettes can last for weeks or even months in an arrangement, especially if kept cool and misted occasionally. This can be a sustainable and budget-friendly alternative.
Low Maintenance: Sempervivums require minimal care, needing minimal water and no special treatments. This makes them suitable for arrangements that will not be regularly maintained.

Cons:

Limited Movement: Sempervivums are rooted plants and lack the flexibility of cut flowers for dramatic positioning or shaping within the arrangement.
Bulky Size: Depending on the variety and rosette size, Sempervivums might be bulkier than typical cut flowers, requiring careful placement and potentially limiting design options.
Root Rot Risk: If the base of the rosette sits in water for extended periods, it can lead to root rot. Choose arrangements with minimal water contact or use techniques like wrapping the base in moss to prevent direct water exposure.
Not True Flowers: Unlike cut flowers, Sempervivum rosettes themselves are not actual flowers. The visual appeal comes from the foliage, not blooms.

Tips for Using Sempervivum in Arrangements:

Choose small varieties: Opt for Sempervivum varieties with smaller rosettes that fit well within the arrangement's scale and do not overpower other elements.
Highlight textures and colors: Use Sempervivums to complement the textures and colors of other flowers or foliage. For example, pair green rosettes with contrasting flower colors or use them to add texture to arrangements dominated by softer elements.
Secure them well: Ensure the Sempervivums are securely positioned and will not loosen or fall out during transport or display. Consider using floral pins or foam to anchor them in place.
Minimize water contact: Avoid submerging the base of the rosettes in water. Use minimal water in the arrangement and mist occasionally to keep them hydrated without risking rot.
Consider artificial options: If the limitations of using live Sempervivums outweigh the benefits, explore artificial succulents made from high-quality materials that can offer a similar look without the maintenance concerns.

Ultimately, using Sempervivum in floral arrangements is a matter of creativity and understanding their unique characteristics. By playing with their textures, colors, and careful placement, you can create interesting and long-lasting arrangements that stand out from the ordinary.

Is Sempervivum Invasive?

In general, Sempervivums are not considered invasive plants. They have several characteristics that make them unlikely to spread aggressively and take over ecosystems:

Slow growth: Sempervivums are slow-growing plants, which means they will not rapidly expand and crowd out other vegetation.
Shallow root systems: Their shallow root systems limit their ability to compete with deeper-rooted plants and hinder them from disrupting established plant communities.
Preference for dry conditions: They thrive in dry, sunny areas and are not well-suited to moist, disturbed environments where invasive plants often flourish.
Seed sterility: Many Sempervivum varieties are sterile, meaning they cannot reproduce through seeds and spread uncontrollably. While they can spread vegetatively through offsets, this process is usually slow and manageable.

However, it is important to consider local conditions and specific varieties:

Non-native environment: Even non-invasive plants can sometimes become problematic in areas beyond their native range if they encounter conditions particularly favorable for their growth and lack natural predators or competitors.
Hybrids and cultivars: Some cultivated varieties may have different growth characteristics than their wild counterparts, so researching the specific cultivar before planting is advisable.
Disturbed habitats: While Sempervivums prefer undisturbed areas, they could potentially establish themselves in disturbed habitats like abandoned gardens or rock walls, potentially impacting native plant communities in such niches.

Therefore, while the risk of Sempervivum becoming invasive is low, it is always recommended to:

Plant them responsibly: Choose varieties known to be non-invasive in your region and plant them in suitable locations where they are unlikely to spread unintentionally.
Monitor their growth: Be aware of how your Sempervivums are spreading and act if you notice them becoming overly aggressive in any area.
Respect local regulations: Some regions may have specific regulations regarding the planting of non-native plants. Always check with local authorities before planting any non-native species.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the beauty and low-maintenance appeal of Sempervivums while ensuring they do not pose a threat to the local environment.

When Is The Best Time To propagate Sempervivum?

There are two good times to propagate Sempervivum: spring and summer. However, the best time can vary slightly depending on several factors:

Climate:

Temperate climates: In areas with mild winters and warm summers, spring (April-May) or early summer (June-July) are ideal times for propagation. The warm temperatures and longer daylight hours promote healthy root development and growth.
Hot climates: In regions with extremely hot summers, early spring (March-April) or late summer/early fall (September-October) might be preferable. Avoid propagating during the peak heat of summer, as the stress can harm the plantlets.
Cold climates: In areas with harsh winters, late spring (May-June) or early summer (July) are best. This gives the new plantlets enough time to establish themselves before the cold arrives.

Propagation method:

Offsets: Dividing offsets (baby plants) is easiest when they are well-developed but not yet too large. Spring or early summer is suitable for this method.
Leaf cuttings: Propagating from leaf cuttings requires specific conditions and success rates can vary. While it can be done throughout the growing season, spring or early summer might be more favorable due to warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours.
Seed: Seed propagation is less common for Sempervivum but can be attempted. Spring or early summer is recommended for seeding.
Specific variety:
Some Sempervivum varieties might have specific dormancy periods or sensitivity to temperature changes that influence the best propagation timing. Research the specific needs of your chosen variety.

Overall:

Spring and summer offer the most favorable conditions for successful propagation due to longer daylight hours, warmer temperatures, and active plant growth.
Choose the timing that best fits your climate, specific propagation method, and Sempervivum variety.
Avoid propagating during periods of extreme heat, cold, or drought.

Remember, successful propagation also depends on proper technique, well-draining soil, and appropriate care. With the right timing and methods, you can easily multiply your Sempervivum collection and enjoy these charming succulents in abundance!

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