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Hens and chicks: Sempervivum tectorumOther common names: houseleek
 Houseleeks are tough, low-growing rosette-shaped succulents that require little care. They tolerate coarse, poor soils and thrive in rock gardens, alpine troughs, and even in stone walls. Each year the mother rosettes surround themselves with baby plantlets by way of horizontal stems, which explains the common name, hens and chicks. There are many cultivars, including red-tinged 'Red Flush,' chartreuse-tipped 'Limelight,' and maroon 'Red Devil.' Profile
did you know?The name Sempervivum is derived from the Latin "semper" or "always" and "vivus" for "alive," a testimony to these tough plants' endurance. In Europe, Sempervivum were planted on roofs to hold slates in place and were thought to protect houses from lightning and subsequent fires. Charlemagne ordered houseleeks planted on all roofs to protect imperial goods and estates. general maintenance:Remove brown, faded mother rosettes after flowering to make room for new plants or "chicks" to fill in. pests/diseases:Rust, leaf rot, and stem rot may occur. The tough fleshy leaves are seldom bothered by pests. controls:To control rot, reduce water or move plants to a drier location. how to sow/plant:Set plants at same depth they grew in pots, 6?8 inches apart. In Zones 4 and colder, plant in pots with a mix of 1 part pumice, 2 parts sand, and 3 parts compost; set plant high in pot to prevent leaf rot. Water after planting. Propagate from division of existing clumps by separating rosettes and replanting. water and fertilize:Houseleeks tolerate poor soil and dry conditions. Water only during drought. features:
garden uses:
other uses:
From Martha Stewart Plant Encyclopedia
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