Sempervivum tectorum

Also Known As

Sempervivum pyrenaicum
Common Houseleek
Hen-and-Chickens
Hens and Chicks
Old Man and Woman

Plant type

cactus / succulent, groundcover

size

H: 1"-4"
W: 1"-6"

planting zones

4a-10b

More Options

Sempervivum tectorum plant details

Sempervivum tectorum is an evergreen groundcover cactus / succulent with green and red foliage. In summer cream and pink flowers emerge. Features glaucous texture. Attracts bees making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - mostly shade and occasional - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Prefers to be dry in winter. Does well in average, gritty, lean, rocky and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Sempervivum tectorum

Plant type: groundcover cactus / succulent
Plant family: crassulaceae
Foliage: evergreen green and red
Mature size: 1 IN - 6 IN - wide, 1 IN - 4 IN - tall
Flowers: cream and pink blooms in summer
Uses: compact, container plant, easy-to-grow, long-lived, miniature, rock garden, roof garden, rosette-forming, xeric, year round interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Sempervivum tectorum

USDA Zones: 4a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly shade
Watering frequency: occasional - low
Resistant to: heat
Soil needs: average, gritty, lean, rocky and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Selected specifically for the miniature garden, we focus on the small ones that will stay approximately 1" in diameter for as long as possible. Hardy and drought-proof. (currently in stock now are a darker green with red tips.) Full sun to part sun. Best in dry places - perfect for the full sun miniature garden. Size will stay a small variety. When happy, the' hen' will bloom, usually in mid summer, then the mother will die leaving the 'chicks' to carry on the cycle of life ;o) Great in the ground or in a pot. Cold zones 4 thru 8. hardy to -25 °F. Heat hardy zones 8 thru 1.

By: Two Green Thumbs Miniature Garden Center

This 'Hens and Chicks' has smooth, broad, green leaves with rose-red tips.

By: Phoenix Perennials and Specialty Plants Ltd.

Monocarpic heads will die after flowering. Light Shade. Various Colors. Outdoor/Indoor.

By: Moon - Sun Cactus & Koi Gardens

Mounds of succulent-like foliage of many sizes, shapes, and textures. Spreading and clumping producing new plantlets, like sun, flowers appear on stems.