Sempervivum are succulent, rosette forming plants belonging to the Crassulaceae family. They are commonly known as Hens & Chicks, Houseleeks or Hen and Chickens. The main attraction of these plants is their colourful rosettes of leaves. fThe rosettes are most striking in the spring and summer but even in the winter when growth stops, many varieties remain attractively coloured. It is the endless range of different leaf shapes, colours and textures that make this group so interesting to enthusiasts. This selection has medium-sized rosettes of rich chocolate brown. The more sun, the darker the color. Short spikes of pastel flowers appear in summer. Easily increased by just removing the small baby rosettes and replanting in a new location at almost any time. Plant grows no more than 4 inches tall, and 8 inches wide. Hardy Zones 4-9. Sunlight brings out bright colors in Sempervivums. When planted in full shade or grown indoors away from a sunny window, many varieties tend to fade to a plain green color. However, in hotter weather during the summer and in the southern United States, afternoon shade can actually help plant colors last longer. The soil’s fertility, pH, moisture and structure, as well as the temperature and age of the plant (some take up to three years for full color) also effect coloration.
