Hens and Chicks

We were surprised at how easily this succulent alpine perennial germinated and grew quickly into recognizable baby rosettes. Commonly known as houseleeks, they were once grown on roofs, and in historical folklore, it was believed they brought wealth and prosperity, protection from fire; especially from the Norse Thunder god, Thor who was said to throw thunderbolts down upon dwellings. In today's gardens, they can be tucked right into rocky and dry areas, requiring very little soil, or grown in pots.  

200 seeds

PLANTING

Sempervivum hybridum

Perennial, zone 3-8

Germination: 7-21 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 70-80ºF

Seed Planting Depth: Sow on the surface and press into soil, seeds need light to germinate. Cold treating the seeds aids germination

Starting Indoors:  Start indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Use a growing medium of  ½ seedling mix and ½ sand. Place the pot of sowed seeds into a clear plastic bag and refrigerate for 2 weeks. Provide 70-80ºF soil temperature for germination. 

Sowing Outdoors: Direct sowing is not recommended

Growth Habit: Spreading rosettes

Spacing: 4-8” apart

Light Needs: Full sun to part sun

Soil Needs: Sandy to average, well-drained 

Approximate days to flower from seed: Blooms in the second or third season

Uses: Flower beds, containers, rock garden, drought tolerant

Care: Amend soil with compost before transplanting. Do not overwater or let them sit in waterlogged soil, the roots will rot.