Black Hens and Chicks
Sempervivum tectorum 'Black'
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, 9
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Southern Europe
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Sempervivum tectorum 'Black' is a succulent with rosettes that have dark purple to almost black foliage, forming attractive ground covers. This cultivar is known for its unique dark coloration which is more pronounced under full sun conditions.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck succulent cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
- Mist lightly to keep soil slightly moist during root development.
- Ensure plants receive full sun for optimal growth.
- Water sparingly once established, about once every 2-3 weeks.
- Fertilize with a cactus/succulent fertilizer during the growing season.
- Divide plants every 2-3 years to maintain vigor.
Pro Tip
Use gritty, well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide full sun for vibrant color and healthy growth 🌞
- Use well-draining soil to prevent root rot
- Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings
- Fertilize during the active growing season with a succulent formula
- Protect from frost in colder zones
Don't
- Don’t overwater, as succulents are prone to rot ❌
- Avoid shady locations which can cause etiolation
- Don’t use heavy clay soil that retains moisture
- Never leave plants in standing water
- Avoid excessive fertilization
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| 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
Black Hens and Chicks questions
What zones can Black Hens and Chicks grow in?
Black Hens and Chicks is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Black Hens and Chicks deer resistant?
Yes — Black Hens and Chicks is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Black Hens and Chicks bloom?
Black Hens and Chicks typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Black Hens and Chicks need full sun?
Black Hens and Chicks does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Black Hens and Chicks drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Black 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
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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'
Forest Frost Hens and Chicks
Sempervivum tectorum 'Forest Frost'
Keep exploring
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Grow Black 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.
