Jovibarba sobolifera 'Green Globe'
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as 'Green Globe' Jovibarba features dense rosettes of fleshy, succulent leaves. These leaves tend to have a green color, often with a slight blue or gray tint, giving them a somewhat muted appearance. The leaf tips may display a reddish or purplish hue, particularly when the plant is grown in bright sunlight or experiences stress, such as cold temperatures or drought. The rosettes are tightly packed, giving the plant a full, compact look. As a succulent, it conserves water within its leaves, which are thick and may exhibit a waxy or slightly glossy surface. 'Green Globe' is known to have offsets, which are small rosettes that form at the base of the parent plant. These can create clusters that further contribute to the plant's dense appearance. During its blooming period, 'Green Globe' Jovibarba produces flowers that emerge on stalks extending from the base of the rosettes. These blossoms are generally yellow, star-shaped, and add a contrast against the green foliage when in bloom. The plant's overall appearance, characterized by its robust and symmetrical rosettes, makes it a popular choice for rock gardens, container gardens, and as groundcover in suitable climates.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Crassulaceae
Synonyms
Hen and Chicks, Rollers
Common names
Sempervivum soboliferum, Sempervivum globiferum ssp. soboliferum, Sempervivum globiferum var. soboliferum, Jovibarba globifera ssp. sobolifera, Jovibarba globifera var. sobolifera.
ToxicityTo humans
Jovibarba sobolifera 'Green Globe', commonly known as Hen and Chicks, is not known to be toxic to humans. In general, this succulent is considered safe and there are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting parts of this plant. However, as with any plant, individuals with specific sensitivities might experience mild irritation or an allergic reaction if they handle or ingest parts of the plant, albeit such occurrences are rare.
To pets
Hen and Chicks, the common name for Jovibarba sobolifera 'Green Globe', is considered non-toxic to pets. It is not commonly associated with poisoning in animals like cats and dogs. Pets that consume parts of this succulent may sometimes experience mild gastrointestinal upset due to the unusual nature of the material ingested, but severe toxicity is unlikely. As with any non-food item, ingestion of large quantities could potentially lead to obstruction or other digestive concerns, so monitoring your pets around houseplants is always advisable.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
12 inches (30 cm)
Plant type
Succulent
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy to care for: Jovibarba sobolifera 'Green Globe' is well-regarded for its low-maintenance needs, tolerating a range of soil types and light conditions.
- Drought-resistant: This plant is highly tolerant of dry conditions, making it an excellent choice for water-conserving gardens.
- Suitable for rock gardens: Its rosette-forming habit and resistance to drought make it a perfect addition to rocky and alpine gardens.
- Attracts pollinators: The flowers can attract bees and other pollinating insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Ideal for cold climates: 'Green Globe' is cold-hardy, able to survive and thrive in cooler temperatures where other plants may not.
- Foliage interest: This plant provides visual interest with its green, globe-shaped rosettes, adding texture to garden designs.
- Propagation ease: It readily produces offsets, which can be used to propagate new plants easily and expand your garden.
- Ground cover potential: The plant's spreading nature makes it suitable for ground cover, helping to reduce weed growth and soil erosion.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic installations: Jovibarba sobolifera 'Green Globe,' known as Hen and Chicks, can be creatively arranged to create living sculptures or artistic patterns in a garden, offering both aesthetic pleasure and a talking point for visitors.
- Photography subjects: Hen and Chicks with their symmetrical rosettes and shades of green are popular subjects for botanical photographers, providing an opportunity to capture the intricate details and patterns of these succulents.
- Education: These plants can be used in educational settings to teach about vegetative reproduction and survival strategies in plants, as Hen and Chicks propagate through offsets or "chicks".
- Ground cover: Hen and Chicks can be planted in between stepping stones or in rock gardens to provide a low-maintenance ground cover that tolerates foot traffic and suppresses weed growth.
- Therapeutic gardens: Their textured rosettes and resilience can be incorporated into therapeutic garden designs to provide a tactile experience and symbolize endurance.
- Erosion control: Hen and Chicks can be used on slopes or areas prone to erosion, as their root systems help to stabilize the soil.
- Pet-friendly gardening: They are a non-toxic alternative for gardens that are accessible to pets, reducing the risk of poisoning if animals are prone to nibbling on plants.
- Roof gardens: Their drought resistance makes Hen and Chicks suitable for green roofs, where they can help to insulate buildings and reduce urban heat islands.
- Miniature gardens: Due to their small size, they are perfect for creating fairy gardens or miniature landscapes, which can be a delightful hobby or decorative feature.
- Creative planters: Hen and Chicks can be planted in unconventional containers like shells, teapots, or driftwood, adding whimsy and ingenuity to garden design.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiHens and Chicks is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityHens and Chicks is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience – Jovibarba sobolifera, commonly known as Hen and Chicks, is known for its ability to survive in rocky and unforgiving environments, symbolizing the strength and resilience to endure and thrive in challenging conditions.
- Motherhood – The plant's characteristic of producing offsets, resembling "chicks," around the "hen" (main plant), represents maternal care and the bond between a mother and her offspring.
- Protection – Hen and Chicks have thick, fleshy leaves that store water, reflecting the idea of protection and self-sufficiency, guarding against harsh conditions and symbolizing nurturing and shelter.
- Eternal Love – The plant's ability to continuously produce new "chicks" without the main plant dying off can be seen as a symbol of enduring love that lasts through generations.
WaterHens and chicks, which is the common name for Jovibarba sobolifera 'Green Globe', prefer moderate watering. It is essential to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Watering should be done thoroughly, ensuring that the water reaches deep into the roots. On average, during the growing season, watering once every 7 to 10 days with approximately 8 ounces of water per plant should suffice, but this can vary based on the environmental conditions. In the winter, when the plant is dormant, watering can be reduced to once a month or even less, depending on the humidity levels.
LightHens and chicks thrive best in conditions that provide full sun to partial shade. A spot that receives direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day is ideal for this plant. However, in extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial to protect the plant from scorching. Avoid placing hens and chicks in deep shade, as this can lead to etiolation and weakened growth.
TemperatureHens and chicks are hardy plants that can withstand a wide range of temperatures. They prefer temperatures between 65°F and 75°F but can survive in temperatures as low as 40°F and as high as 90°F. It's important to protect the plant from frost, as it can damage the foliage, and to provide adequate ventilation during hotter periods to prevent heat stress.
PruningPruning of hens and chicks is generally not required for the health of the plant but can be done for aesthetic purposes or to control its spread. If needed, prune in the early spring before new growth begins by removing any dead or damaged leaves. Offsets can be removed at any time to maintain the plant's shape or to propagate new plants.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Hens and Chicks (the common name for Jovibarba sobolifera 'Green Globe') is well-draining, sandy or gravelly soil that is not rich in organic material. A mixture of one part potting soil, one part coarse sand, and a handful of small gravel or perlite is ideal. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5.
RepottingHens and Chicks should be repotted every two to three years to ensure the soil remains well-draining and to refresh the nutrients available to the plant. It’s best to repot in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Humidity & MistingHens and Chicks thrive in dry to average humidity conditions and do not require high humidity. In fact, excessive humidity can lead to rot, so it is ideal to keep them in an environment with good air circulation and relatively low humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, water sparingly, ensure pot has drainage.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-draining soil, provide protection in winter.
Hardiness zone
Hens and Chicks are suitable for USDA hardiness zones 3-8.
Life cycle'Green Globe' Hens and Chicks begins life as a seed, which germinates in moist, well-draining soil preferably in early spring or summer. It quickly develops into a rosette-forming perennial, gathering nutrients and energy from photosynthesis to establish its roots and foliage. These rosettes, the "hens," eventually proliferate by producing smaller rosette offsets, the "chicks," which spread out around the mother plant and root independently. Over time, the plant matures and may flower, sending up stalks with star-shaped, pale pink to yellowish flowers during the summer months, after which the flowering rosette usually dies. The "chicks" then take over the space left by the "hen," continuing the cycle. The plant's lifecycle can span several years, as offsets continue to grow and replace the older generation, forming dense mats of rosettes.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Jovibarba sobolifera 'Green Globe', commonly known as Hen and Chicks or Sempervivum 'Green Globe', is best propagated through division, which is a popular method for succulent plants. The best time to propagate these plants is during their active growing season, which is typically in the spring or early summer. For division, carefully separate the offsets, which are the 'chicks', from the mother plant, the 'hen', making sure that each offset has some roots attached. Plant the offsets in a well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix at the same depth they were previously growing. Water the new plants sparingly until they establish. Within a few weeks, the offsets should take root and start growing independently.
