Sempervivum Plant Growing & Care Guide for Gardeners

Article by Dean Ravenscroft, Ph.D. - Updated 27th Oct 2023

In this Gardener's HQ guide, we'll explore cultivating Sempervivum plants in your garden, indoor spaces, and other settings.

Hen and Chicks, Houseleek, & Liveforever: Cultivation & Garden Use

Sempervivum are rosette forming hardy or half hardy annuals that range from 10 to 30 cm in height.

They bloom from the start to middle of summer, and carry small stellar flowers of pink, red, yellow or white.

Their size makes them ideal for use in rock gardens and borders.

Some common names for Sempervivum plants include Live Forever, Houseleek. and St. Patrick's Cabbage.

Sempervivum tectorum by blumenbiene.

Sempervivum reinhard by brewbook.

As a member of the Crassulaceae family, Live Forever is closly related to the Sedum plant genera.

How to Grow Sempervivum

It is best to grow Live Forever and other Sempervivum from offsets as seed-grown plants may not always be attractive.

When growing Sempervivum from seeds outdoors then sow on the surface in the spring. They should be grown in a sunny part of the garden in a soil that is poor and dry.

If you plan to first grow plants indoors then they can be sown in either spring or summer, it takes from two to seven weeks for the seeds to germinate at a temperature of 20 to 28 degrees centigrade. The Sempervivum plants should be transplanted outdoors at a distance of 15 cm (small varieties) to 30 cm (larger species).

Caring for Sempervivum

Sempervivum likes dry soil, so water only when very dry. Once blooming has finished dead-head the flowers. If you require more plants then it is best to grow from offsets.

Common Questions

How many members does the Sempervivum genus have?

The Sempervivum genus, also known as Houseleeks or Hen and Chicks, comprises about 40 species.

Do members of Sempervivum make a good garden or landscaping plant?

Yes, Sempervivum species make excellent garden plants due to their hardiness, low water needs, and attractive rosette form.

Which Sempervivum species are most frequently grown by gardeners?

The most commonly grown species is Sempervivum tectorum, commonly known as Common Houseleek.

Are members of the Sempervivum plant genus fragrant?

No, Sempervivum species are not typically fragrant. They are prized more for their interesting forms and drought tolerance.

What is the perfect location to grow Sempervivum?

Sempervivum prefers full sun and well-drained soil. They are especially well-suited for rock gardens, containers, and green roofs.

Is Sempervivum invasive in the USA, if so in which states?

Currently, Sempervivum is not considered invasive in the USA. It's always best to check with local regulations for the most current information.

How do I remove Sempervivum plants from my garden?

To remove Sempervivum, uproot the entire plant including its roots. A trowel or garden fork can assist with this.

Summary

The Sempervivum genus includes succulent perennials native to mountainous regions of Europe and North Africa. They are known for their rosette-forming growth habit and impressive tolerance to drought and cold.

Propagate Sempervivum through offsets or by seed, and plant them in spring or autumn. They prefer full sun and well-drained, sandy or gritty soil. As succulents, they require minimal watering, making them an excellent choice for rock gardens, containers, or green roofs.

I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Sempervivum plants. You may also enjoy the following Gardener's HQ growing guides: How to grow Chiastophyllum and Kalanchoe blossfeldiana plants.