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Description
Sempervivum Tectorum, also known as hens and chicks or houseleeks, is a succulent plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. This plant is native to Europe and can be found growing on rocky slopes, cliffs, and walls. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its unique appearance and easy-to-care-for nature.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Sempervivum |
Appearance
Sempervivum Tectorum is a small, low-growing plant that forms rosettes of fleshy leaves. The leaves are green to gray-green in color and are covered in fine hairs. The rosettes can grow up to 15cm in diameter and produce offsets, or “chicks”, around the base of the plant. The flowers of Sempervivum Tectorum are pink to red in color and appear on tall stalks in the summer. This plant is an excellent choice for rock gardens, container gardens, and as ground cover.
Care Guide
Sempervivum Tectorum is an easy-to-care-for plant that is perfect for beginners. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: Sempervivum Tectorum is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry.- Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring.- Soil: Sempervivum Tectorum prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline. Use a cactus or succulent potting mix.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will not thrive in low light conditions.- Hardiness Zones: Sempervivum Tectorum is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sempervivum Tectorum is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered. If you notice any signs of rot, remove the affected leaves and reduce watering. This plant can also be prone to mealybugs and spider mites. To control these pests, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Sempervivum Tectorum is native to Europe and can be found growing on rocky slopes, cliffs, and walls. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate extreme temperatures and drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Sempervivum Tectorum?
A: Water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry. This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering.
Q: What kind of soil does Sempervivum Tectorum prefer?
A: Sempervivum Tectorum prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline. Use a cactus or succulent potting mix.
Q: Can Sempervivum Tectorum tolerate extreme temperatures?
A: Yes, this plant can tolerate extreme temperatures and drought conditions. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Q: Is Sempervivum Tectorum prone to pests and diseases?
A: Sempervivum Tectorum is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot and mealybugs or spider mites.
Related Plants
– Sempervivum Arachnoideum- Sedum Spurium- Echeveria Pulvinata- Graptopetalum Paraguayense
References
– “Sempervivum tectorum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 27, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.- “Sempervivum tectorum.” Plant Finder. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.monrovia.com.- “Sempervivum tectorum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk.
