info@bloomindesigns.com
Imagine More Perennials Than You Can Imagine, Delivered To You - Free
Sempervivum, commonly known as Hens and Chicks or Houseleeks, are fantastic additions to almost any garden within their hardiness zones (3-9). Here is why they are a great choice for both novice and seasoned gardeners:
Generally, Pest & Disease Resistant: Their main enemy is rot caused by poor drainage or overwatering. Pests are infrequent.
Ideal Timing: Plant in spring or early fall. This gives them time to establish roots before summer heat or winter cold extremes.
Choosing a Location:
Soil Preparation:
Planting Process:
Ongoing Care:
By providing excellent drainage and resisting the urge to overwater, gardeners in zones 3-9 can easily enjoy the diverse beauty and resilience of Sempervivum.
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: The Hardy 'Hen and Chicks' Succulent
Common Names: Hen and Chicks, Houseleeks, Liveforever
Botanical Name: Sempervivum spp. (Genus includes approx. 40 species and countless cultivars)
Family: Crassulaceae
Sempervivum, commonly known as Hen and Chicks or Houseleeks, are exceptionally hardy succulent plants cherished for their captivating rosette forms and remarkable resilience. These plants form tight cushions or mats composed of numerous individual rosettes, each featuring fleshy, pointed leaves arranged in an intricate spiral pattern. Renowned for their ability to thrive in challenging conditions – from rocky crevices to containers, and even rooftops – Sempervivum brings unique texture, color, and geometric beauty to gardens with minimal demands on the gardener. Their name, derived from the Latin semper ("always") and vivus ("living"), aptly describes their enduring, evergreen nature and their perceived ability to survive almost anywhere.
Morphology
Key Characteristics
Notable Species & Varieties The genus offers incredible diversity. Some well-known examples include:
Native Habitat & Origin Sempervivum species are primarily native to the mountainous regions of southern Europe (Alps, Carpathians, Balkans), western Asia, and parts of North Africa. They typically grow in rocky outcrops, alpine meadows, and stony slopes, environments characterized by excellent drainage, ample sunlight, and often harsh climatic conditions.
Hardiness
Planting and Cultivation
Landscaping Design Tips Sempervivum's versatility makes them suitable for numerous garden styles:
Pests and Diseases Generally robust and pest-resistant, but issues can arise, primarily due to improper conditions:
Historical Significance & Etymology Beyond the name "Liveforever," Sempervivum tectorum specifically holds historical significance. Its specific epithet tectorum means "of roofs." It was famously planted on thatched and tiled roofs across Europe, believed to offer protection against lightning strikes, fire, and witchcraft. It also helped bind roofing materials and provided a source of greens in emergencies. This connection to human dwellings earned it the name "Houseleek."
Sempervivum are truly remarkable plants, offering a rare combination of ruggedness, intricate beauty, and ease of care. Their geometric rosettes, diverse colors, and "hen and chicks" growth habit provide endless fascination. Whether gracing a rock garden, spilling from a container, or colonizing a green roof, these "liveforever" succulents are rewarding additions to almost any sunny, well-drained garden space, thriving for years with minimal input.
Here is the taxonomy of Sempervivum:
Note:
This taxonomy shows the hierarchical classification of Sempervivum, placing it within its respective groups based on shared evolutionary characteristics.
Sempervivum, commonly known as Houseleeks or Hens and Chicks, exhibit the following key morphological characteristics:
These morphological features make Sempervivum well-adapted to their natural habitats, which are often rocky, dry, and nutrient-poor environments.
Note: The specific morphology can vary significantly between different Sempervivum species and cultivars.
Sempervivum, those delightful little succulents often called Hens and Chicks, are incredibly easy to grow. Here is a breakdown of their cultivation needs:
Light:
Soil:
Watering:
Temperature:
Fertilizing:
Propagation:
Pests and Diseases:
Garden Uses:
By providing these basic cultural conditions, you can enjoy the beauty and resilience of Sempervivum in your garden for years to come.
Sempervivum Maintenance Calendar
Spring (March-May)
Summer (June-August)
Fall (September-November)
Winter (December-February)
General Maintenance Throughout the Year:
Note: This is a general guide, and specific maintenance needs may vary depending on the climate, species, and growing conditions.
Additional Tips:
By following this calendar and providing proper care, you can enjoy the beauty and resilience of Sempervivum for many years to come.
The genus Sempervivum boasts a diverse array of species, groups, varieties, and cultivars, each offering unique characteristics and visual appeal. Here is a glimpse into some of the notable ones:
Species:
Groups:
Varieties:
Cultivars:
This is just a small selection of the many species, groups, varieties, and cultivars available within the Sempervivum genus. Each offers its own unique beauty and can add a touch of natural elegance to any garden or container.
Please note that the specific names and classifications of Sempervivum can sometimes be complex and subject to change as new research and discoveries are made.
Sempervivum, commonly known as Hens and Chicks, are excellent choices for mass planting due to their:
Ideas for Mass Planting Sempervivum:
Tips for Mass Planting:
By carefully planning and selecting the right varieties, mass planting Sempervivum can create a stunning and low-maintenance focal point in any garden or landscape.
Also known as Hens & Chicks or Houseleeks, Sempervivum is a hardy and charming succulent that truly lives up to its Latin name, meaning "forever alive."
Characteristics:
Appearance:
Landscape Use:
Care:
Additional Notes:
Overall, Sempervivum is a delightful and resilient succulent that adds a touch of charm and texture to any garden. Its unique growth habit and easy care make it a favorite among gardeners of all levels.
Commonly known as Hens and Chicks or Houseleek, Sempervivum tectorum is a fascinating succulent native to the mountains of Southern Europe. Revered for its unique geometric beauty and its legendary ability to protect buildings from lightning strikes, this plant has a long history intertwined with human culture. Its botanical name, "Sempervivum," aptly translates to "live forever," reflecting its prolific offset production, which ensures its continued spread and survival.
Sempervivum tectorum, commonly called house leek (houseleek), is native to the mountains of southern Europe. It is an evergreen, mat-forming succulent that typically forms rosettes (to 4” across) of 50-60 thick glabrous leaves (to 1.5-3” long) that are sometimes purple-tipped. Rosette foliage typically grows to 4” tall. The mother rosette (hen) spreads in all directions by horizontal stems to form offsets (chicks). In summer, leafy, pubescent, upright flowering stalks rise from the hen to as much as 12” tall topped with cymes of red-purple flowers. After the hen flowers, it sets seed and dies leaving the chicks to fill in the space and spread, hence the sometimes-used common name of hens and chicks for this plant. Plants are primarily grown in gardens for their attractive and unusual foliage. In Europe, sempervivum was once planted on roofs of houses for a number of reasons, including warding off lightning/fire, holding slates in place, or providing emergency salad food (edible leaves as roof leeks) in winter.
Growing Conditions:
Easily grown in average, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates some light shade. Likes sandy or gravelly soils. Tolerates poor soils. Needs sharp soil drainage to perform well. Tolerates some drought. Avoid overwatering. Plants are evergreen. Plants spread by offsets to form colonies. Individual rosettes die after bloom and should be removed from the garden at that time.
Unique Features:
Landscaping Uses:
Care Tips:
Overall, Sempervivum tectorum is a resilient, low-maintenance, and visually striking succulent that adds a touch of history and charm to any garden. Its unique growth habit, adaptability to challenging conditions, and versatile landscaping uses make it a must-have for plant enthusiasts and garden designers alike.
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.
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.
Planting a Sempervivum is quite simple! Here is a step-by-step guide:
Choosing a Location:
Planting:
Additional Tips:
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.
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):
Cobweb Houselee (Sempervivum arachnoideum):
Red Roof (Sempervivumtectorum 'Rubrum'):
Bronze Beauty (Sempervivum calcareum 'Bronze'):
Silver Blob (Sempervivum tectorum 'Silver Blob'):
Hen and Chicks (Sempervivum globiferum):
Black Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum tectorum 'Nigrum'):
Kalmthout Giant (Sempervivum calcareum 'Kalmthout Giant'):
Jolly Joker (Sempervivum tectorum 'Jolly Joker'):
Pinwheel (Sempervivum tectorum 'Pinwheel'):
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.
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:
Soil:
Watering:
Temperature:
Fertilizing:
Additional Care:
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!
Sempervivum flowers do attract pollinators like bees and butterflies! Here is what makes them pollinator-friendly:
However, it is important to note that the attractiveness of Sempervivum to pollinators can vary depending on several factors:
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.
Sempervivums are resistant to pests and diseases, making them low-maintenance plants. However, there are a few exceptions you should be aware of:
Pests:
Diseases:
Other Potential Issues:
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!
Yes, you can use Sempervivum in floral arrangements, but with some considerations and limitations:
Pro:
Cons:
Tips for Using Sempervivum in Arrangements:
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.
In general, Sempervivums are not considered invasive plants. They have several characteristics that make them unlikely to spread aggressively and take over ecosystems:
However, it is important to consider local conditions and specific varieties:
Therefore, while the risk of Sempervivum becoming invasive is low, it is always recommended to:
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.
There are two good times to propagate Sempervivum: spring and summer. However, the best time can vary slightly depending on several factors:
Climate:
Propagation method:
Overall:
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!
Generally, water Sempervivum infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. This typically translates to watering every 2-3 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer), and even less frequently in fall and winter when the plant is dormant.
Remember:
Additional Tips:
By following these guidelines, you can ensure your Sempervivum stays healthy and thrives for years to come!
Hens and chicks (Sempervivum tectorum) are incredibly cold hardy, able to withstand temperatures as low as -30°F (-34°C). This makes them suitable for outdoor cultivation in USDA hardiness zones 3-9, which covers a vast majority of the United States. They are even known to thrive under a blanket of snow during winter!
So, you do not need to worry much about them freezing in winter. However, it is important to protect them from excessive moisture during cold months, as this can lead to rot.
Ensure they have well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
The best time to transplant baby chick plants (offsets of hens and chicks succulents) is in the spring or early summer when the weather is mild, and the plants are actively growing. This will give them the best chance to establish themselves in their new location before the winter dormancy sets in.
Here is how to transplant them:
Choose the Right Chicks: Select healthy chicks that are at least 1 inch in diameter. These will have a better chance of surviving the transplant.
Prepare the New Location: Ensure the new planting area has well-draining soil and receives plenty of sunlight. You can plant them directly in the ground or in containers.
Gently Detach the Chicks: Carefully separate the chick from the mother hen by gently twisting or pulling it.
Additional Tips:
Remember, hens and chicks are hardy plants and can tolerate a bit of rough handling. Do not be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you and your plants.
It is almost always better to grow sempervivum from offsets (also known as "chicks") rather than seeds. Here is why:
Advantages of Offsets
When Seeds Might be Considered
Overall
For most home gardeners, propagating sempervivum from offsets is the clear winner. It is simpler, faster, and ensures you get the exact plant you want. So, unless you are specifically interested in hybridization or large-scale production, stick with those adorable little chicks!
Physical Appearance
Soil Condition
Remember:
Additional Tips:
By paying attention to these signs and adjusting your watering accordingly, you can keep your succulents healthy and thriving.