Species

Sempervivum tectorumHens and Chicks

10 other cultivars

cactus succulent

Hens and Chicks

Sempervivum tectorum 'Hens and Chicks'

The Story

Plant Bio

A hardy succulent that forms rosettes, often with many offsets.

Known for its ability to thrive in poor soils and its unique ability to multiply through offsets.

Uses & Benefits:

Sempervivum tectorum adds visual interest with its rosette shape and vibrant colors, perfect for rock gardens and containers.

Low water needs make it ideal for xeriscaping and drought-prone areas.

Provides habitat for beneficial insects and supports biodiversity.

SpeciesSempervivum tectorumHens and Chicks

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

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck succulent cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
Mist soil lightly until roots develop, about 2-3 weeks.
Place in full sun for best growth and color.
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out between watering.
Fertilize with cactus or succulent fertilizer monthly during growing season.
Divide rosettes in early spring to propagate new plants.

Pro Tip

Use gritty, sandy soil for excellent drainage and prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water only when soil is completely dry 🌱
Provide full sun for vibrant color and healthy growth
Use well-draining soil to prevent overwatering
Apply cactus fertilizer during the growing season

Don't

Avoid overwatering; succulents are drought-tolerant ❌
Do not place in low light conditions
Avoid using heavy soil that retains moisture
Do not transplant during extreme heat

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Pest Check
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Rock garden accentDrought-tolerant borderPaving crevice filler

Companion Plants

Sedum Echeveria Aloe VeraThyme Lavender

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 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 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.