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Description
Sempervivum Tectorum Var. Calcareum, also known as Houseleek, is a succulent plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is a perennial plant that is native to Europe and Asia, and it is commonly found growing on roofs and walls of buildings. The plant has a rosette-shaped foliage that is green to gray-green in color, with pointed leaves that grow up to 6 inches long. The leaves are covered with a waxy coating that helps the plant retain moisture during dry periods.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Sempervivum |
Appearance
Sempervivum Tectorum Var. Calcareum is a small plant that grows up to 4 inches in height and 6 inches in width. It has a rosette-shaped foliage that is green to gray-green in color, with pointed leaves that grow up to 6 inches long. The leaves are covered with a waxy coating that helps the plant retain moisture during dry periods. The plant produces small pink to red flowers that bloom in the summer.
Care Guide
Sempervivum Tectorum Var. Calcareum is an easy plant to care for. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sempervivum Tectorum Var. Calcareum is a relatively pest and disease-free plant. However, it may be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. To prevent these pests, keep the plant clean and free from debris. If infestation occurs, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap. The plant may also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
Sempervivum Tectorum Var. Calcareum is native to Europe and Asia, and it is commonly found growing on roofs and walls of buildings. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Sempervivum Tectorum Var. Calcareum?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Sempervivum Tectorum Var. Calcareum?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Q: What pests and diseases should I watch out for?
A: Sempervivum Tectorum Var. Calcareum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. The plant may also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Q: How tall does Sempervivum Tectorum Var. Calcareum grow?
A: The plant grows up to 4 inches in height.
Related Plants
- Sempervivum Arachnoideum
- Sempervivum Montanum
- Sempervivum Tectorum
References
- “Sempervivum Tectorum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282874&isprofile=0&cv=5.
- “Sempervivum Tectorum.” Plant Care Today, 10 Nov. 2021, plantcaretoday.com/sempervivum-tectorum.
