Sempervivum tectorum, also known as the common houseleek, is a beautiful and hardy succulent plant that can be found in the mountains of southern Europe. Its striking rosettes of thick, fleshy, grey-green leaves are often suffused with rose-red, making it a popular choice for groundcover in hot and dry areas. The plant spreads by producing offsets attached to the mother rosette by stout stolons, and in summer it produces clusters of reddish-purple flowers on hairy erect flat-topped stems.
Sempervivum tectorum has been cultivated for nearly 200 years, and there are hundreds of cultivars that have been propagated, sold, and traded. The species is highly variable, and it has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
Propagation of Sempervivum tectorum occurs in the spring when budding occurs. It multiplies horizontally by propagation of underground roots, and from each mother plant, up to four new ones can be obtained. Seeds propagation is also possible in spring.
This mat-forming succulent can grow up to 15 cm tall and 50 cm broad. Its leaves are ciliate, which means they are fringed with hairs, and they can grow up to 10 cm in diameter. The plant is highly variable, and there are many common names associated with it, including Hen and Chickens, Old Man and Woman, Thunder Plant, and more.
Sempervivum tectorum is native to the mountains of western, central, and southern Europe, from the Pyrenees to the Alps, Apennines, and Dinarides. It is valued not only for its appearance but also for its ability to withstand hot, dry conditions. This plant is a great addition to any garden, and its low maintenance requirements make it an excellent choice for novice gardeners.
Sempervivum tectorum plants for sale shown in 70mm pot. You will receive same or similar plants as those shown in images. Colours will vary depending on time of year and growing conditions.
First time customers... Please read our Shipping Guide, in top or bottom menu, before placing your order.
Please Note:
- All plants are sent bare rooted with no pots and soil, or minimum soil only.
- Due to the drying process necessary for sending plants through the mail, plants may look slightly different than images shown on our website
- Some plants, may look wrinkled when they arrive, may be somewhat limp, or soft to the touch. This is normal as they have been dried out for for a number of days before shipping to avoid rotting in the mail.
- Succulents are very hardy plants and they will recover quickly, providing you unpack them as soon as you receive them follow some simple care instructions you will find with your order.
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