Everything You Need to Know About Hens and Chicks Succulents

When it comes to succulents, there’s nothing quite like the Sempervivum varieties, also known as hens and chicks or houseleeks. These plants are true survivors in the world of gardening, living up to their Latin name, which means “always living.”

These resilient succulents are perennials that grace your garden for years, blooming before eventually passing on but leaving behind many “chick” offsets to continue growing. They are a must-have for those with dry or poor soil conditions, thriving as ground cover, container plants, or in rock gardens.

Sempervivum plants add a desert vibe to water-wise gardens with their fleshy rosettes available in various colors and patterns. The most common species, known as the common houseleek, is S. tectorum. It is joined by other recognizable species like the cobweb houseleek, S. arachnoideum, and S. calcareum with its majestic rosettes.

If you’re looking to add these beauties to your garden, rest assured that Sempervivum varieties are easy to grow and maintain. Even newcomers to gardening can enjoy these hardy plants without worry. They are known for producing offsets that easily propagate to fill your garden with life.

With hundreds of varieties available, selecting the best one can be overwhelming. Whether you prefer a specific color palette or an architectural design, there’s a Sempervivum plant perfect for you. Here’s our curated list of 11 of the best types to consider for your garden or container:

1. Berry Blues
2. Rich blue-green foliage with a burgundy center

3. Cold-tolerant, hardy in Zones 3 to 8

4. Berry Bomb

5. Deep clusters of burgundy-grape rosettes

6. Part of the Chick Charms® series

7. Black Rose

8. Classic green rosettes with purple-black tips

9. Hardy in Zones 5 to 10

10. Cornelia

11. Light green rosettes with lovely red tips

12. Hardy in Zones 5 to 10

13. Desert Bloom

14. Pointy, light green leaves with a dusky pink hue

15. Hardy in Zones 4 to 9

16. Greenii

17. Large, bold rosettes with a mahogany hue

18. Hardy in Zones 4 to 9

19. Hurricane

20. Compact red-tinted green rosettes

21. Hardy in Zones 5 to 10

22. Lilac Time

23. Stunning open rosettes in deep pink and lavender

24. Hardy in Zones 2 to 9

25. Red Lion

26. Bright red foliage with silver hairs

27. Hardy in Zones 5 to 10

28. Robin

29. Medium-size rosettes with blue-green crimson tips

30. Hardy in Zones 4 to 10

31. Sugar Shimmer

32. Silvery rosettes with purple edges
33. Hardy in Zones 4 to 9

These varieties offer a range of colors, sizes, and textures to add interest to your garden. While some may be harder to find, specialty succulent purveyors like Nature Hills Nursery and Succulent Gardens may have rare options available.

Now, before you rush off to purchase your next Sempervivum plant, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your succulent garden:

1. Provide excellent drainage: Succulents thrive in well-draining soil to prevent rot.
2. Avoid overwatering: Most Sempervivum plants are drought-tolerant and prefer to stay on the dry side.
3. Protect from heavy rain: Shelter your plants during rainy periods as excess water can cause issues.

By following these simple guidelines, you’ll ensure your Sempervivum garden flourishes and continues to “stay alive” for years to come.

Do you have a favorite Sempervivum variety not included in our list? Share your stories and photos in the comments below and let us know which hens and chicks succulents steal your heart!

For more gardening tips and succulent guides, explore our other articles on growing and caring for your favorite plants. With a little love and attention, your Sempervivum garden will transform into a vibrant oasis of color and life.

Remember, the secret to Sempervivum success lies in their ability to “always live,” serving as a testament to the resilience and beauty of these beloved succulents. Happy gardening!