Cobweb Houseleek Sempervivum arachnoideum var. bryoides

Names

• Family

  Crassulaceae

• Synonyms

  Cobweb Houseleek, Cobweb Hen and Chick, Spider Web Hens and Chicks

• Common names

  Sempervivum bryoides, Sempervivum arachnoideum subsp. tomentosum.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Cobweb houseleek (Sempervivum arachnoideum var. bryoides) is not known to be toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects reported from ingesting this plant, and it is generally considered safe. However, as with any non-edible plant, consuming it is not recommended and could cause digestive upset or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

• To pets

  Cobweb houseleek is not known to be toxic to pets. It is generally considered safe for dogs, cats, and other animals. There are no significant symptoms of poisoning associated with this plant, as it is not known to contain any toxic substances. Pets ingesting this plant may experience mild gastrointestinal upset, but severe toxicity is unlikely.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Evergreen

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Pink

• Height

  0.5 feet (15 cm)

• Spread

  1 foot (30 cm)

• Plant type

  Succulent

• Hardiness zones

  5

• Native area

  Europe

General Benefits

• Easy to care for: Sempervivum arachnoideum var. bryoides, commonly known as Cobweb Houseleek, is a low-maintenance plant that does not require frequent watering or complex care routines.
• Drought resistant: It is adapted to survive in dry conditions, storing water in its leaves to endure periods without rain.
• Cold hardy: This variety can survive in cold temperatures, making it suitable for outdoor gardens in various climates.
• Propagation: It propagates easily, producing offsets that can be separated and replanted to expand your garden or share with others.
• Aesthetic appeal: The plant's unique cobweb-covered rosettes add visual interest and texture to rock gardens, green roofs, or container arrangements.
• Environmental resilience: It is resistant to pests and diseases, ensuring a hardy presence in the garden without the need for chemical treatments.
• Soil erosion control: The root system of this succulent helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and in rock gardens.
• Attracts pollinators: When in bloom, the flowers of Cobweb Houseleek can attract bees and other beneficial pollinators to the garden.
• Longevity: Being a perennial, it can live for several years, providing long-term structure and interest to the landscape.
• Decorative versatility: It can be used in a variety of garden designs, including alpine troughs, succulent wreaths, and as companion plants to other drought-tolerant species.

Medical Properties

• Anti-inflammatory: Sempervivum arachnoideum, commonly known as cobweb houseleek, has been traditionally used to reduce inflammation when applied topically.
• Antiseptic: The plant's juice has antiseptic properties, which may help prevent infection in minor cuts and burns.
• Astringent: Cobweb houseleek may have astringent effects which could be beneficial in toning the skin and healing wounds.
• Emollient: It can be used as an emollient to soothe and soften the skin.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Sempervivum arachnoideum, commonly known as Cobweb houseleek, can be used as a living roof covering, providing insulation and reducing rainwater runoff.
• The dense rosettes of the Cobweb houseleek can be planted in crevices of stone walls, contributing to a rustic and natural aesthetic.
• This plant is sometimes used in miniature gardening, adding texture and interest to fairy gardens and small-scale landscapes.
• Cobweb houseleek can serve as a natural fire retardant when planted in fire-prone areas due to its high water content and succulent nature.
• As a groundcover in alpine and rock gardens, it helps prevent soil erosion on slopes and rough terrain.
• The peculiar webbed appearance of Cobweb houseleek makes it a popular choice for thematic Halloween gardens, adding a spooky touch to the decor.
• It can be used in container gardens to create low-maintenance, drought-tolerant arrangements that can survive with minimal attention.
• When planted as a border, the Cobweb houseleek delineates garden paths and segregates different garden sections with its unique form.
• The plant's ability to propagate easily from offsets means it can be shared among gardeners, fostering community and plant exchanges.
• Because it survives in harsh conditions, the Cobweb houseleek can be employed in education to teach about plant adaptations and survival strategies.

Feng Shui

The Hen and Chicks plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Perseverance and Survival: Sempervivum arachnoideum var. bryoides, commonly known as Cobweb Houseleek, can survive in harsh conditions and poor soil, symbolizing the ability to endure and thrive in difficult circumstances.
• Protection: Traditionally, Cobweb Houseleek was believed to ward off lightning and protect homes when planted on roofs, symbolizing safety and defense.
• Timelessness and Eternal Love: Since they are succulents that can live for many years and propagate easily, they represent long-lasting affection and the everlasting nature of love.
• Self-Reliance: Their ability to store water in their thick leaves allows them to be very independent plants, symbolizing self-sufficiency and autonomy.
• Renewal: Cobweb Houseleek regenerate themselves by constantly producing offspring, representing rebirth and new beginnings.