Hens and Chicks Sempervivum calcareum
ABOUT
The common name for Sempervivum calcareum is 'Houseleek.' This succulent plant is known for its attractive, symmetrical rosette shape. The leaves are thick and fleshy, typically a green color with a hint of blue-gray, and oftentimes the tips are capped with dark red or purple, resembling a pointed crown. These leaf tips can give the rosette a dramatic, two-toned appearance. The leaves are tightly packed, forming compact rosettes that can look like a large, blooming flower from above. The surface of the leaves may have a slightly velvety or waxy texture providing an additional visual interest. During its flowering period, Houseleek produces inflorescences consisting of small, star-shaped flowers; these can be of various colors such as pink or red, adding a seasonal pop of color to the plant's overall display. The flowers rise on a stalk from the center of the rosette but discussing the height of this stalk is not within the scope of this description. Overall, Houseleek's distinctive, hardy rosettes provide a unique aesthetic, especially when planted in clusters, as they often are in rock gardens or as ground cover. Their neat, eye-catching form along with the ease of care contributes to the plant's popularity among gardeners and collectors of succulents.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Crassulaceae
Synonyms
Job's Beard, Liveforever, Houseleek
Common names
Sempervivum calcareum subsp. calcareum, Sempervivum wulfenii.
ToxicityTo humans
The houseleek is considered non-toxic to humans and is not known to cause any adverse health effects if ingested in small amounts. There is no significant toxicity associated with this plant, and it is not known to cause poisoning symptoms. However, consuming any plant material in large quantities could potentially cause gastrointestinal discomfort, so it is always best to exercise caution and not eat plants not meant for consumption.
To pets
Houseleek is generally considered non-toxic to pets and is not known to cause any serious symptoms of poisoning. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion in significant amounts could potentially lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, in some pets. It is always advisable to monitor pets around plants and discourage them from chewing on any plant material that is not intended for animal consumption.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Spread
1 feet (30 cm)
Plant type
Succulent
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy to care for – Sempervivum calcareum, commonly known as Houseleek, is low maintenance and can thrive with minimal watering and care.
- Drought-tolerant – Houseleek is exceptionally drought-resistant, making it an ideal plant for xeriscaping and arid environments.
- Cold-hardy – It can resist freezing temperatures, making it suitable for outdoor cultivation in many climates.
- Aesthetic appeal – Houseleek offers a unique appearance with rosette patterns and colors that can enhance rock gardens, green roofs, and container gardens.
- Propagates easily – They produce offsets that allow for easy propagation and sharing with others.
- Pest-resistant – Houseleek is not prone to many pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Versatility in landscape design – Can be used in various design scenarios from ground cover to vertical gardens.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Sempervivum calcareum, commonly known as Houseleek, is traditionally used for its potential anti-inflammatory properties.
- Antiseptic: The plant has been used in folk medicine for its antiseptic qualities, potentially helping to reduce the risk of infection in wounds.
- Astringent: Houseleek is known to contain astringent compounds that may help in tightening and toning the skin.
- Wound healing: There is anecdotal evidence that suggests the juice of Houseleek leaves could promote wound healing.
- Skin irritations: The sap from the leaves is traditionally applied to skin irritations and minor burns to soothe discomfort.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Edging for pathways: Sempervivum calcareum, commonly known as Houseleek, can provide a durable and attractive edging for garden paths due to its low-growing, spreading habit.
- Roof gardening: Houseleeks have traditionally been grown on rooftops in some regions to create a living roof that provides insulation and absorbs rainwater.
- Living wreaths: The succulent leaves and rosette form of Houseleeks make them an ideal choice for creating living wreaths that can be hung or placed as table centerpieces.
- Moss substitute in miniature gardening: When creating miniature or fairy gardens, Houseleeks can be used as a moss-like cover because of their dense and small-scale foliage.
- Erosion control: Their extensive root systems and ability to withstand drought make them effective at stabilizing slopes and areas prone to erosion.
- Green gifts and favors: Small pots of Houseleek are popular as eco-friendly gifts or wedding favors, symbolizing longevity and resilience.
- Cold frame plants: Houseleeks thrive in cold frames during the winter, offering greenery when other plants are dormant.
- Companion planting in succulent gardens: Houseleeks blend well with other succulents and cacti, offering a varied texture and color palette to the arrangement.
- Green grave markers: In some cultures, Houseleeks are planted on graves as a symbol of everlasting life, requiring minimal maintenance and thriving in full sun.
- Craft projects: The rosettes of Houseleeks are sometimes used in floral arrangements or decorations, adding a unique succulent touch to various craft projects.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Hen and Chicks is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Hen and Chicks is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Endurance: Sempervivum calcareum, commonly known as Houseleek, symbolizes long life and enduring qualities due to its ability to survive in harsh conditions and its perennial nature.
- Protection and Safety: Historically, Houseleeks were planted on rooftops to protect against lightning strikes and fire, symbolizing safety and shelter.
- Self-Reliance and Independence: The Houseleek is capable of growing without much care or water, symbolizing its ability to sustain itself and signifying independence.
- Perseverance: Houseleek thrives in poor soil and challenging environments, representing the ability to persevere and thrive despite difficulties.
- Love and Devotion: The Houseleek's rosettes resemble the shape of a rose, often connecting it to love and devotion in its capacity to endure and stay evergreen.
WaterThe Houseleek, Sempervivum calcareum, requires moderate watering and excellent drainage to prevent root rot. Water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between watering sessions. Typically, watering once every 7 to 10 days during the growing season is sufficient. Depending on the climate and the size of the pot, this could equal approximately 8-16 ounces of water for smaller pots or up to 1 gallon for larger containers. In the winter, when the plant is dormant, reduce watering frequency to once a month or less, always checking soil dryness before adding water.
LightThe Houseleek prefers full sun to partial shade. Place it in a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. An east or west-facing window sill or a spot with bright, indirect light for the rest of the day is ideal. Avoid deep shade as it can cause the plant to lose its vibrant color and compact form.
TemperatureHouseleeks thrive in a wide range of temperatures, adapting well to the typical household environment. They can survive brief periods of frost down to around 0°F but prefer a more temperate range. The ideal temperature for Houseleeks would be between 65°F and 75°F during the day, slightly cooler at night. Though tolerant, it's best to protect your plant from extreme heat above 90°F and prolonged frost conditions.
PruningFor the Houseleek, pruning is mainly about removing dead or damaged leaves and spent flower stalks to maintain its appearance and health. Prune dead material as needed, at any time of the year. The best time for pruning, however, is early spring before new growth begins. Generally, Sempervivum calcareum doesn't require frequent pruning; once a year is often sufficient.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHens and Chicks prefer a well-draining soil mix composed of one part potting soil, one part coarse sand or perlite, and a handful of peat to slightly acidify the mix. The ideal soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging between 6.0 and 7.5.
RepottingHens and Chicks should be repotted every other year or when it outgrows its current pot. Repotting encourages healthy growth and prevents overcrowding.
Humidity & MistingHens and Chicks thrive in dry conditions. It prefers low humidity levels, typical of arid climates, making it an excellent plant for dry indoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, allow soil to dry between waterings.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, tolerates drought and cold.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleSempervivum calcareum, commonly known as the Calcarea Houseleek, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in moist conditions with good drainage. The seedling develops into a rosette of succulent leaves, establishing a deep taproot to access water in rocky soils. As it matures, the rosette grows and may produce offsets, or 'pups', around the base, thus increasing vegetatively. After several years, when mature, the plant sends up a flower stalk with star-shaped, pinkish-purple flowers; this is a monocarpic event meaning the flowering rosette dies after blooming. The seeds from the flowers fall to the ground, completing the cycle by potentially producing new plants. Finally, as the original rosette dies, the surrounding pups continue growing, taking over the lifecycle as the next generation.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Sempervivum calcareum, commonly known as Hen and Chicks, is a plant that can be easily propagated by offshoots, which are the "chicks" growing around the mother "hen" plant. The best time to propagate Hen and Chicks is during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate using offshoots, gently pull an offshoot from the mother plant, ensuring it has some roots attached. Allow the offshoot to callous over for a day or two to prevent rot. Then, plant the offshoot in well-draining soil, water it lightly, and place it in a bright location but out of direct harsh sunlight. The offshoot will soon establish roots and grow into a new plant. This vegetative method is the most popular due to its simplicity and high success rate.
