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Description
Sempervivum Globiferum Subsp. Allionii, commonly known as the Allioni’s Houseleek, is a succulent plant that belongs to the family Crassulaceae. This perennial plant is native to the mountains of Europe and grows up to 10 cm in height and 15 cm in diameter. It has rosette-shaped leaves that are blue-green in color and covered with fine white hair. The plant produces pink flowers that bloom in late spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Sempervivum |
| Species | Globiferum |
| Subspecies | Allionii |
Appearance
The Allioni’s Houseleek has rosettes of fleshy, blue-green leaves that are covered with fine white hair. The leaves are arranged in a spiral pattern and can grow up to 6 cm long and 2 cm wide. The plant produces offsets, or “chicks”, that grow around the base of the mother plant. The offsets can be separated and planted to create new plants. In late spring, the plant produces pink flowers that are borne on a tall, slender stalk. The flowers are star-shaped and have five petals.
Care Guide
To care for the Allioni’s Houseleek, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. The plant prefers to be kept on the dry side and should only be watered when the soil is completely dry. Fertilizer is not necessary for this plant. The Allioni’s Houseleek is hardy in USDA zones 5-9 and can tolerate temperatures down to -20°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Allioni’s Houseleek is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if it is over-watered or planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
The Allioni’s Houseleek is native to the mountains of Europe, where it grows in rocky, well-draining soil. The plant is adapted to survive in harsh environments and can tolerate drought, cold temperatures, and high altitudes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Allioni’s Houseleek be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I water the Allioni’s Houseleek?
A: The plant should only be watered when the soil is completely dry. This can range from once a week to once every few weeks, depending on the environment and growing conditions.
Q: How do I propagate the Allioni’s Houseleek?
A: The plant can be propagated by separating the offsets, or “chicks”, from the base of the mother plant and planting them in well-draining soil.
Q: What is the best time to prune the Allioni’s Houseleek?
A: The plant does not require pruning, but any dead or damaged leaves can be removed at any time.
Related Plants
- Sempervivum Arachnoideum
- Sempervivum Tectorum
- Sempervivum Montanum
- Sempervivum Calcareum
References
- “Sempervivum Globiferum Subsp. Allionii.” World of Succulents, https://worldofsucculents.com/sempervivum-globiferum-subsp-allionii-allions-houseleek/. Accessed 2 Sept. 2021.
- “Sempervivum Globiferum Subsp. Allionii.” Plant Lust, https://www.plantlust.com/plant-finder/sempervivum-globiferum-allionii/. Accessed 2 Sept. 2021.
- “Sempervivum Globiferum Subsp. Allionii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h930. Accessed 2 Sept. 2021.
