Sempervivum

Description

Sempervivum, commonly known as houseleeks or hens and chicks, is a genus of flowering plants in the Crassulaceae family. These succulent perennials are native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, and are often grown as ornamental plants in rock gardens, containers, and as ground covers. The name “Sempervivum” comes from the Latin words “semper” meaning always, and “vivus” meaning living, which refers to the plant’s ability to survive in harsh conditions.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Sempervivum plants form rosettes of thick, fleshy leaves that come in a range of colors, from green to red, purple, and even black. The leaves are often covered in fine hairs or a waxy coating, which helps to protect the plant from sun and wind damage. Sempervivum produces small, star-shaped flowers on tall stems in the summer, which attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Care Guide

Sempervivum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for, making it a popular choice for beginner gardeners. Here are some tips to keep your Sempervivum healthy:

• Water: Sempervivum is drought-tolerant and does not need frequent watering. Water only when the soil is completely dry, and be careful not to overwater, as this can cause root rot.
• Fertilization: Sempervivum does not require fertilization, but you can feed it with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season to encourage growth.
• Soil: Sempervivum prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. You can use a cactus or succulent potting mix, or make your own by mixing sand, perlite, and peat moss.
• Sunlight: Sempervivum thrives in full sun to partial shade, but can tolerate some shade. If grown in too much shade, it may become leggy and lose its vibrant color.
• Hardiness Zones: Sempervivum is hardy in USDA zones 3-9, and can tolerate cold temperatures and frost.

Common Pests & Diseases

Sempervivum is generally pest and disease-free, but can occasionally be affected by the following:

• Mealybugs: These small, white insects can suck the sap from the leaves of Sempervivum, causing them to wilt and turn yellow. You can control mealybugs by spraying the plant with a solution of water and dish soap, or by using an insecticide.
• Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can cause root rot in Sempervivum, which can lead to yellowing leaves and wilting. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and allow it to dry out between waterings.

Habitat

Sempervivum is native to rocky, mountainous regions in Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It is adapted to harsh, dry conditions and can tolerate cold temperatures and drought. Sempervivum grows well in well-draining soil in full sun to partial shade, and is often found growing on rocky slopes, cliffs, and walls.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water my Sempervivum?

A: Water your Sempervivum only when the soil is completely dry, which is usually once every 1-2 weeks. Be careful not to overwater, as this can cause root rot.

Q: How can I propagate my Sempervivum?

A: Sempervivum can be easily propagated by removing offsets, or “chicks,” that grow at the base of the mother plant. Simply separate the offsets from the mother plant and plant them in well-draining soil.

Q: Can Sempervivum tolerate frost?

A: Yes, Sempervivum is a hardy plant that can tolerate cold temperatures and frost. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.

Q: How can I prevent mealybugs on my Sempervivum?

A: You can prevent mealybugs on your Sempervivum by keeping the plant healthy and avoiding overwatering. If you do notice mealybugs, you can spray the plant with a solution of water and dish soap, or use an insecticide.

Related Plants

• Echeveria
• Sedum
• Crassula
• Kalanchoe

References

• “Sempervivum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282880.
• “Sempervivum.” Plant Care Today, 22 Mar. 2021, plantcaretoday.com/sempervivum-plant-care.
• “Sempervivum: The Hens and Chicks Plant.” Garden Design, www.gardendesign.com/plants/sempervivum.html.