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Description
Sempervivum Wulfenii, also known as Wulfen’s houseleek or Hen and Chicks, is a low-growing, evergreen succulent plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is native to the Alps, Carpathians, and Balkans, and is widely cultivated in gardens and rockeries for its ornamental value.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Sempervivum |
Appearance
Sempervivum Wulfenii forms low rosettes with fleshy, blue-green leaves that have pointed tips and are covered with fine hairs. The leaves grow up to 15 cm long and 2 cm wide, and have reddish-brown tips in the summer. The plant produces a tall, branched inflorescence, up to 50 cm tall, with pinkish or yellowish flowers that bloom in summer.
Care Guide
Sempervivum Wulfenii is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and a sunny location, but can tolerate partial shade. It is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering, but should not be allowed to dry out completely. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in spring can promote growth. Sempervivum Wulfenii is hardy to USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sempervivum Wulfenii is generally pest-free, but can be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while poor drainage can cause fungal diseases such as leaf spot or crown rot.
Habitat
Sempervivum Wulfenii is native to rocky, mountainous regions of Europe, where it grows in crevices and on cliffs. It is well adapted to harsh environments with low rainfall and poor soil, and can tolerate extreme temperatures.
Questions and Answers
Q: Can Sempervivum Wulfenii be grown indoors?
A: Sempervivum Wulfenii can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny location, but it prefers to be outdoors in the summer.
Q: How often should I water Sempervivum Wulfenii?
A: Sempervivum Wulfenii is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering, but should not be allowed to dry out completely. Water when the soil is dry to the touch.
Q: Can Sempervivum Wulfenii be propagated?
A: Yes, Sempervivum Wulfenii can be propagated by separating offsets from the parent plant or by leaf cuttings.
Q: Does Sempervivum Wulfenii attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Sempervivum Wulfenii is a nectar source for bees and butterflies and can attract beneficial insects to the garden.
Related Plants
- Sempervivum arachnoideum
- Sempervivum tectorum
- Sempervivum montanum
- Sempervivum calcareum
References
- “Sempervivum Wulfenii.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 20 July 2021.
- “Sempervivum Wulfenii.” RHS Gardening. The Royal Horticultural Society, n.d. Web. 20 July 2021.
- “Wulfen’s Houseleek.” Fine Gardening. The Taunton Press, n.d. Web. 20 July 2021.
