Sempervivum calcareum 'Grigg's Surprise' is a rare and intriguing succulent that will add unique character to any collection. This monstrose cultivar is a mutation of Sempervivum calcareum, and instead of the usual flat-leaved rosette, it forms masses of long, slender quills that are blue-green in color and tipped in deep burgundy. These unusual leaves are tubular and fused together to form rosettes that are more solid and denser than the parent plant.
This slow-growing succulent offsets to form fat, dense colonies that can reach up to 30cm in height, making it a great addition to a garden or pot. Happy in full sun or part shade positions, Sempervivum calcareum 'Grigg's Surprise' is a hardy plant that thrives in gritty, well-draining soils and pots with drainage holes. It produces new offsets or "chicks" on stolons, which can be left to form tidy clusters or removed to share and transplant.
Sempervivum do most of their growing in the spring and summer, and will thrive with weekly watering and afternoon shade if temperatures exceed 80F. They are incredibly frost hardy and will happily thrive through winter under an insulating blanket of snow. However, it is important to protect them from heavy rains and standing water to prevent rot.
This bizarre succulent is not very vigorous and flowers very rarely, but it has a unique look that always adds interest to a collection. It is great for 'Under the Sea' themed gardens and can be grown either in pots or in the garden. Sempervivum calcareum 'Grigg's Surprise' is definitely a plant for the collector, and its rarity and unusual form make it a must-have for the discerning succulent enthusiast.
Sempervivum calcareum 'Grigg's Surprise' plants for sale shown in 70mm pot. You will receive same or similar plants to those shown in images. Colours will vary depending on time of year and growing conditions.
All plants are shipped bare rooted unless otherwise stated. Orders are carefully packed and shipped via Express Post to NSW, VIC, QLD, SA and ACT. Orders are dispatched according to our weekly shipping schedule, available on our Shipping page, with tracking provided once your order has been lodged with Australia Post.
Succulents naturally change in colour, size and form throughout the year. Many develop richer colours and more compact growth during periods of seasonal stress, particularly through cooler months and brighter conditions, while warmer or lower-light conditions may produce greener, softer growth.
The plant you receive may therefore vary from the product images depending on the season, its stage of growth and current growing conditions. These natural variations are part of the character of living plants and do not affect their quality or health.
Pickup is available in Seville, Yarra Valley VIC by appointment. Order online as normal and any shipping charge will be automatically refunded after collection, unless you would prefer to receive an additional plant of similar value instead.
All plants are shipped bare rooted unless otherwise stated. This helps reduce shipping costs, improves plant safety during transit and allows plants to travel more reliably.
Plants are carefully packed for Express Post and may vary naturally in colour, size and form according to season, growth stage and growing conditions.
Please check the product description and images for information specific to the plant you are purchasing.
If you have any questions about your plant or order, please reach out to us. We’re always happy to help.
Overall rating: 5.0 / 5 from 5 reviews.
What beautiful plants. Christmas in a box. All my plants arrived in excellent condition and were generous in size. Succulents are the most wonderful plants to grow and collect. So much variety and the best place to source them is John and Norma's Succulents.
Sempervivum calcareum 'Grigg's Surprise'
Store owner replied: Thanks so much Jennifer! “Christmas in a box” made us smile. We're delighted you loved your plants and really appreciate your lovely words and support! 😊
All plants arrived on a very hot day, the box had taken a pretty bad beating from Aussie Post, but luckily the plants had been packed extremely well and survived the trip. Unpacked all and put into their new homes until they grow up.
as all succulents from you excellent
Lovely succulents
prompt arrival
