An extremely hardy alpine succulent forming tight rosettes that cluster into colonies of offsets, the leaves often blushed red at the tips. Famously frost-proof and ideal for rockeries and troughs.
At a glance
- Plant type: Succulent
- Mature size: 10 cm H × 30 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Hens and Chicks
Sempervivum tectorum is a slow-growing succulent in the Crassulaceae family. It reaches around 10 cm tall and 30 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen and purple-toned foliage. Pink flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Hens and Chicks
Hens and Chicks suits Mediterranean, warm-temperate and arid and semi-arid climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and is deer-resistant.
Soil & planting
Hens and Chicks does best in sandy and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Hens and Chicks is very drought tolerant once established, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Hens and Chicks after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Hens and Chicks in the garden
Hens and Chicks earns its place for pots and courtyard containers, a low lawn alternative and holding soil on banks and slopes. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Hens and Chicks with other plants that enjoy the same very drought tolerant and Mediterranean climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Hens and Chicks
Plant Sale lists Hens and Chicks as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.