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Description
Sempervivum Ciliosum, commonly known as Hens and Chicks, is a succulent plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is native to the mountains of Europe, where it grows in rocky areas and on cliffs. The plant is named “Hens and Chicks” because of its characteristic rosette growth habit, where the mother plant (hen) produces small offsets (chicks) around it.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Sempervivum |
Appearance
Sempervivum Ciliosum has a rosette growth habit, with each rosette measuring about 5-8 cm in diameter. The leaves are fleshy, triangular, and pointed, with a ciliated margin that gives the plant its specific name. The leaves are green in color, with reddish tips during the winter months. In the summer, the plant produces a tall stem that can reach up to 30 cm in height, topped with pink or white flowers.
Care Guide
Water
Sempervivum Ciliosum is a drought-tolerant plant that requires infrequent watering. Water the plant when the soil is dry and ensure that the water drains well to prevent root rot. During the winter months, reduce watering to once a month.
Fertilization
Sempervivum Ciliosum does not require fertilization. However, you can fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Soil
Sempervivum Ciliosum prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. You can use a cactus or succulent mix or make your own by mixing equal parts of sand, perlite, and potting soil.
Sunlight
Sempervivum Ciliosum requires full sun to thrive. Place the plant in a location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Sempervivum Ciliosum is hardy in USDA zones 5-9. If you live in a colder zone, you can grow the plant in a container and bring it indoors during the winter months.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sempervivum Ciliosum is generally pest and disease-free. However, the plant can be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. To prevent pests, regularly inspect the plant and remove any affected leaves. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests.
Habitat
Sempervivum Ciliosum is native to the mountains of Europe, where it grows in rocky areas and on cliffs. The plant thrives in well-draining soil and requires full sun to thrive.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Sempervivum Ciliosum?
A: Water the plant when the soil is dry and ensure that the water drains well to prevent root rot. During the winter months, reduce watering to once a month.
Q: Does Sempervivum Ciliosum require fertilization?
A: Sempervivum Ciliosum does not require fertilization. However, you can fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Q: What are the common pests that affect Sempervivum Ciliosum?
A: Sempervivum Ciliosum can be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Sempervivum Ciliosum?
A: Sempervivum Ciliosum is hardy in USDA zones 5-9. If you live in a colder zone, you can grow the plant in a container and bring it indoors during the winter months.
Related Plants
- Sempervivum Arachnoideum
- Sempervivum Tectorum
- Sempervivum Montanum
- Sempervivum Calcareum
References
- “Sempervivum Ciliosum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.
- “Hens and Chicks.” Gardening Know How, 2021, www.gardeningknowhow.com.
- “Sempervivum Ciliosum.” Plant Lust, 2021, www.plantlust.com.
