Hen and Chicks

Sempervivum calcareum is an alpine perennial cactus, sometimes called Houseleeks or Hen and Chicks, known for its dramatic foliage and pretty flowers. It is a hardy succulent coveted for its distinct leaf colouring, bearing stunning, large, grey-green rosettes formed from pale blue-green tongue-shaped leaves, which tinge to reddish-maroon at the tips. Sempervivums can also change their colours depending on season, temperature, shade or sun levels, and the age of the plant. Rosettes are symmetrical and dome-shaped and the plant will grow to around 20cm high and 30cm wide. Tall, cone-shaped spikes bearing greenish-pink blooms will emerge on mature plants in summertime.

These succulents look amazing grown in containers or rock gardens, and will also be a superb filler in dry stone walls or paving cracks. Grow in full sun in well-drained soil, adding grit to assist drainage.