Sempervivum Hens and Chicks

Hens and Chicks Plant Description

Sempervivum is a genus of about 40 species of flowering succulents in the family Crassulaceae, commonly known as houseleeks. Other common names include liveforever and hen and chicks.They are succulent perennials forming mats composed of tufted leaves in rosettes. In ideal conditions they spread rapidly producing offsets. The perfect succulent to use as a ground cover for sunny locations.

Sempervivum calcareum, is native to high altitudes of France and Italy, it grows a very symmetrical hen house of rosettes. It boasts blue-green leaves with reddish-purple margins. An super offsetter, hence the "hen n' chicks" nickname! They are tolerant of cold like few other succulents. We recommend you plant them in clusters, while landscaping or in your favorite succy pot!

Hens and Chicks Plant Specs and Regions

Native to: France, Italy

Zone: 5-8

Hardiness: tender soft succulent - will not tolerate frost

Recommended light conditions: full sun to partial shade

Bloomtime: Summer

Bloomcolor: various colors

Hens and Chicks Water and Light Recommendations

Watering Needs Indoors: Instead of giving your succulents gradual sips of water throughout the week, give them a good soaking, to the point where water runs out the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. Be sure to empty the water that runs into the saucer, succulents do not like to sit in water. Then let the soil dry out completely before watering again.

Watering Needs Outdoors: In the Summer water your succulents every two weeks, by soaking them and letting them dry before watering again. In the Winter water your succulents once a month.

Technical Information About This Plant

• Requires bright light for most of the day. Or constant dappled shade.
• Best to water every 2 weeks. Avoiding letting water sit in the rosette.