Sempervivum arachnoideum

Sempervivum arachnoideum, commonly known as Cobweb Houseleek, is a low-growing, evergreen succulent prized for its distinctive appearance and remarkable resilience. Native to the mountainous regions of southern and central Europe, including the Alps, Apennines, and Pyrenees, this alpine perennial naturally thrives in rocky crevices and gravelly slopes, where water drains quickly and conditions can be harsh.

Its compact rosettes typically reach 2 to 5 cm across and are formed by pointed, fleshy green leaves. What sets Sempervivum arachnoideum apart is the intricate network of fine white hairs that cover the leaf tips, forming a cobweb-like pattern that gives the plant its common name. This unique feature is thought to offer some protection from strong sunlight and moisture loss, making it especially well-adapted to dry, sunny environments.

As a mat-forming species, it spreads laterally by producing numerous offsets on short stolons. These “chicks” cluster around the mother rosette (“hen”), eventually rooting and forming dense colonies. In summer, mature rosettes send up a short flowering stalk adorned with star-shaped pink to rose-pink blooms. As with all Sempervivums, the flowering rosette will die after blooming, but the colony lives on through its offsets.

Ideal for rockeries, troughs, containers, and green roofs, Sempervivum arachnoideum tolerates frost and drought with ease. In Australian gardens, it performs best in full sun to light shade and well-drained soil, making it a reliable and visually intriguing choice for low-maintenance planting schemes.

Sempervivum arachnoideum plants for sale shown in 70mm pot. You will receive same or similar plants as those shown in images 2 onward. First image for display only. Colours will vary depending on time of year and growing conditions. Most recent plants shown first.