Contents
Description
Sempervivum Cistaceum Commander Hay is a succulent plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It’s also known as the Hens and Chicks plant because it produces small offsets or “chicks” around the main plant or “hen”. This species is native to the Mediterranean region and can grow up to 6 inches in height and 8 inches in width. It’s a hardy plant that can survive in harsh conditions, making it a popular choice for rock gardens and container planting.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Sempervivum |
Appearance
The leaves of Sempervivum Cistaceum Commander Hay are fleshy and form a rosette shape. The leaves are green and have a unique red edging. The plant produces pink or red flowers that bloom in the summer. The flowers are star-shaped and grow on a long stem that can reach up to 12 inches in height. The offsets or “chicks” that grow around the main plant are smaller in size and have the same appearance as the parent plant.
Care Guide
Sempervivum Cistaceum Commander Hay is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant sparingly and avoid overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.
- Fertilization: Sempervivum Cistaceum Commander Hay doesn’t require fertilization, but you can add a small amount of succulent fertilizer during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant the Sempervivum Cistaceum Commander Hay in well-draining soil that’s rich in nutrients.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate hot and dry conditions but should be protected from extreme heat or frost.
- Hardiness Zones: Sempervivum Cistaceum Commander Hay is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sempervivum Cistaceum Commander Hay is a hardy plant that’s resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases if overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil. Spider mites and mealybugs can also infest this plant, but they can be easily treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Sempervivum Cistaceum Commander Hay is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found growing in rocky or sandy areas. It’s a hardy plant that can survive in harsh conditions and is well-suited for rock gardens and container planting.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Sempervivum Cistaceum Commander Hay be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors in a sunny location. However, it’s important to ensure that the soil is well-draining and that the plant isn’t overwatered.
Q: How often should I water Sempervivum Cistaceum Commander Hay?
A: Water the plant sparingly and allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. During the winter months, the plant can go several weeks without water.
Q: Does Sempervivum Cistaceum Commander Hay require fertilization?
A: This plant doesn’t require fertilization, but you can add a small amount of succulent fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Q: Can Sempervivum Cistaceum Commander Hay tolerate frost?
A: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-9 and can tolerate frost. However, it’s important to protect the plant from extreme cold or heat.
Related Plants
- Sempervivum arachnoideum
- Sempervivum tectorum
- Sempervivum montanum
- Sempervivum calcareum
References
- “Sempervivum cistaceum Commander Hay”. Cactus-art.biz. Accessed 22 September 2021. https://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/SEMPERVIVUM/Sempervivum_cistaceum/Sempervivum_cistaceum_Commander_Hay/Sempervivum_cistaceum_Commander_Hay.htm
- “Sempervivum cistaceum Commander Hay”. Mountain Crest Gardens. Accessed 22 September 2021. https://mountaincrestgardens.com/sempervivum-cistaceum-commander-hay/
- “Sempervivum”. The Spruce. Accessed 22 September 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/sempervivum-plant-profile-4172911
