I like to think of the many types of Sempervivumas “Stayin’ Alive” plants.
No, it’s nothing to do with disco. Rather, it’s that name that means “always living” when translated from Latin.
These succulents, with many varieties suitable for home gardens that are commonly called hens and chicks or houseleeks, certainly live up to the Latin genus name.
They’re perennials that will last at least two or three years before the “hens” bloom and then die – leaving numerous offset “chicks” behind to keep on growing.
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They’re handy for dry areas with medium to poor soil, making an appealing and fast-spreading ground cover or addition to a container or rock garden.
Best of all, they look great in water-wise gardens, with their dense, fleshy rosettes that have a desert vibe. And they come in a variety of colors and rosette patterns, too.
The most popular species is S. tectorum, also known as the common houseleek.
S. arachnoideum, or the cobweb houseleek, is also highly recognizable due to the faux spiderwebs that grace its foliage.
S. calcareum is another species you’re likely to come across. It’s most prized for its larger-than-average rosettes tipped with a mahogany accent.
If you’re looking for the best Sempervivum to grow in your landscape or container garden, you may hope to make your decision to fit a certain color palette, or because you’re looking for something architectural and unique.
Rest assured, all of these species as well as their hybrids and cultivars are easy to grow and hardy – you really can’t go wrong as long as you’re able to provide the conditions they crave.
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