Common Houseleek / Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum tectorum)
Sempervivum tectorum
Sempervivum tectorum is a cold-hardy alpine succulent featuring tight, symmetrical rosettes of fleshy green leaves that develop pronounced red-purple tips under strong sunlight. Known familiarly as 'Hens and Chicks', the primary mother rosette spreads vigorously via horizontal stolons to produce dense clusters of clonal offsets. As a monocarpic species, individual rosettes expire after a dramatic summer bloom, leaving behind an established, persistent carpet of younger rosettes.
📋 Core Botanical Care Parameters
Full sun to light outdoor shade. Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to prevent etiolation and maintain intense anthocyanin leaf coloration.
Apply a strict 'soak and dry' method during the active growing season. Allow the substrate to dry out entirely between waterings; avoid supplemental watering during wet winter dormancy.
60% Coarse mineral grit (pumice, volcanic rock, sharp river grit) + 40% Low-humus commercial cactus compost.
-35°C (-31°F, USDA Zone 3b)
Separation of stoloniferous offsets ('chicks') in spring or summer, directly rooted into dry gritty mix. Leaf cuttings rarely succeed for Sempervivum.
This plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs and safe for pet-friendly homes.
Smart Succulent Watering Calculator
Get a personalized watering schedule based on your plant species, pot, and season:
• Dynamically optimized for your pot and climate
Never water until at least 80% of soil is completely dry!
