Hens and Chicks
Sempervivum tectorum 'Mix'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Cactus Succulent
Height
6 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Southern Europe
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Sempervivum tectorum is a mat-forming, evergreen succulent perennial. It grows in rosettes of fleshy leaves. The main rosette (hen) sends out offsets (chicks), which root to form new plants. After flowering, the parent rosette dies. The 'Mix' cultivar includes a variety of colorful rosettes, making it visually striking for rock gardens and containers.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck cuttings into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Water sparingly after planting; allow soil to dry between watering.
- Mist cuttings daily to maintain humidity during root development.
- Place in full sun for optimal growth and color vibrancy.
- Transplant mature rosettes to desired garden spots after 1 year.
- Apply a thin layer of gravel or sand as mulch to prevent rot.
Pro Tip
Use gritty, well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Ensure plenty of sunlight for vibrant coloration 🌞
- Water only when soil is completely dry ❌
- Use cactus or succulent fertilizer during spring and summer
- Remove dead or damaged leaves to promote healthy growth
- Repot in well-draining soil when crowded
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause rot ❌
- Don’t expose to frost; protect in cold zones
- Refrain from using heavy, clay soils that retain water
- Don’t keep in low light or shaded areas
- Avoid fertilizing during winter dormancy
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Hens and Chicks questions
What zones can Hens and Chicks grow in?
Hens and Chicks is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Hens and Chicks deer resistant?
Yes — Hens and Chicks is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Hens and Chicks bloom?
Hens and Chicks typically blooms in summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Hens and Chicks need full sun?
Hens and Chicks does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Hens and Chicks drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Hens and Chicks handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Sempervivum to compare
Cobweb Houseleek
Sempervivum tectorum 'Cobweb'
Hens and Chicks
Sempervivum tectorum 'Hens and Chicks'
Dynamo Hens and Chicks
Sempervivum tectorum 'Dynamo Hens n Chicks'
Sempervivum Red Beauty
Sempervivum x hybrida 'Red Beauty'
Black Hens and Chicks
Sempervivum tectorum 'Black'
Forest Frost Hens and Chicks
Sempervivum tectorum 'Forest Frost'
Keep exploring
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Grow Hens and Chicks with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
