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Plant Profiles / Hens and chicks
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Hens and chicks
Sempervivum tectorum and hybrids · Houseleek
Tight succulent rosettes that multiply into mats of "chicks". Very hardy and colourful.
Full sunLight
Every 2–3 weeksWater
Very easyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun
ShadeFull sun
Sun.
Water
Every 2–3 weeks
DryWet
Let dry.
Humidity
Low
LowHigh
Dry.
Temperature
-25–35°C (-13–95°F)
CoolWarm
Very hardy.
Growth
Slow
SlowFast
5–15 cm.
Soil
Gritty
LeanRich
Cactus mix.
Fertiliser
Rarely
RarelyOften
None.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Safe.
About this plant
Native to European mountains. Handles frost, sun and neglect; mother rosettes die after flowering.
Best spots
Shallow pots, rockeries and sunny balconies.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Sempervivum tectorum and hybrids |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Origin | European mountains |
| Plant type | Succulent |
| Mature size | 5–15 cm |
| Growth rate | Slow |
| Foliage | Rosettes |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic |
| Propagation | Offsets |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Active growth
Flowering
Active growthFlowering
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Rosette dies | After flowering. |
| Rot | Wet. |
| Stretched | Light. |
| Dull | Shade. |
| Birds | Net. |
Common questions
Frost?
Yes.
Pets?
Safe.
Spread?
Yes.
Flower?
Then dies.
