Hens and Chicks Plant Care

INSIDE : Learn the best Hens and Chicks Plant Care tips to grow healthy plants! From the best water amounts to it’s ideal light levels, the Sempervivum tectorum plant is a great indoor (and outdoor) option.  I especially love it’s glossy rosette shaped leaves!

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One of the first plants I ever fell in love with was Hens and Chicks. I don’t know if it because they are such easy plants to take care of or the darling fact that as they grow, the little baby “chicks” become “hens” right before your eyes! This rosette-shaped clusters of fleshy leaves makes me smile every time.

Let’s do some learning about this wonderful plant that is great for indoor or outdoor spaces.

What are other names for Hens and Chicks?

“Hens and Chicks” is the common name for a group of succulent plants, primarily those belonging to the genus Sempervivum.

It’s botanical latin name is Sempervivum tectorum. Some of the other names you might hear for these plants are…

• Houseleek: This is a very common alternative name, referring to the plant’s tendency to grow on house roofs in Europe. The “leek” part comes from an old Anglo-Saxon word for plant.
• Liveforever: This name comes directly from the Latin meaning of the botanical name Sempervivum (“semper” meaning always and “vivus” meaning living), highlighting the plant’s resilience.
• Roof Houseleek: This name specifically points to the historical use of these plants on roofs.
• Old Man and Woman: This is a less common name, sometimes used for certain species like Sempervivum calcareum.
• Jupiter’s Beard : These names reflect an ancient association with the Roman god Jupiter (Jove) and the Norse god Thor. In German, it’s even called “Donnerbart” (thunder beard).
• Cobweb Houseleek: This refers specifically to species like Sempervivum arachnoideum that have fine, white hairs resembling cobwebs on their rosettes.
• Other less common names: You might also encounter names like “Bullock’s Eye,” “Devil’s Beard,” “St Patrick’s Cabbage,” “Thunder Plant,” or even the humorous “Welcome-home-husband-however.”

What are the best growing conditions for Hens and Chicks?

Hens and Chicks thrive in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to maintain their compact rosette shape and vibrant colors.

They prefer well-draining soil, such as a sandy or gravelly mix, to prevent root rot.

These succulents are quite drought-tolerant and prefer infrequent watering, especially during the winter months.

They are also cold-hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, making them suitable for various climates indoors or outdoors.

Does Sempervivum like sun or shade?

Sempervivum, also known as Hens and Chicks love the sun! For them to thrive and display their best colors and to keep their compact growth, they need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

While they can tolerate some partial shade, especially in very hot afternoon sun – too much shade will result in leggy growth. So make sure to find a sunny spot or window for your plant to keep them happy and vibrant.

How to plant Hens and Chicks?

Planting Hens and Chicks is a simple process that rewards you with tons of low-maintenance succulents.

Begin by selecting a sunny location (in a window indoors or full sunshine outdoors) that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Make sure the soil is sandy to offer the best drainage you can.

When planting, dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball, gently remove the plant from its container and place it so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.

Water lightly after planting to settle the soil and only sparingly when the soil is completely dry.

Growing Hens and Chicks in pots

Growing Hens and Chicks in containers and pots isjust as easy as growing them outdoors in the ground. In pots, they are the perfect succulent to add cool-looking plants to your porch or inside your home.

To start, always pick pots that have holes in the bottom so any extra water can drain out.

Use dirt made for cactus or succulents, as it helps water move through easily. And if you don’t have succulent or cacti soil, be sure to add plenty of perlite to help the soil not get too wet.

When you put the plants in the pot, make sure the top of the plant’s roots is even with the top of the dirt. Be sure to leave a little space between plants so the ‘chicks’ can grow.

Only water when the dirt feels totally dry and put them in a location with lots of natural light.

How to propagate Hens and Chicks

Propagation is so easy for Hens and Chicks! Gently separate the “chicks” from the “hen” once they have developed their own roots. Rough up the surface of the soil and place the new “chick” so that the roots are in the soil.

While they are establishing their root systems, you might need to water them a little more consistently to keep the soil lightly moist, but still not soggy. Once you see new growth, you can reduce the watering frequency.

Is Sempervivum an indoor or outdoor plant?

Sempervivums are versatile plants. They can be kept in pots, bowls, troughs, or in open ground such as a rock garden. When outdoor plants, they like a sunny location – ideally getting as much sun as possible, but at least for part of the day.

When kept inside, this plant likes to be as close to a window as possible. If you notice it getting leggy or losing some of it’s color, then make sure to locate your plant as close to the sun as you can.

How often should I water Hens and Chick plants?

Hens and Chick plants are quite drought-tolerant and prefer to dry out completely between waterings.

During extended periods of high temperatures and no rain for your outdoor plant, you might need to water them slightly more often, but still ensure the soil dries out between waterings.

Hens and Chicks in containers tend to dry out faster than those in the ground, so you’ll likely need to water container-grown Hens and Chicks a bit more frequently. However, the same principle of letting the soil dry out first applies.

Are Hens and Chicks safe to keep around pets?

Yes, good news for pet owners! Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum) are considered non-toxic to dogs, cats and horses according to the ASPCA.

Do you love plants like me?  You might like some of my other Plant Care + Tip posts.

What supplies do I need to grow Hens and Chicks?

Plant Moisture Meter | Pruning Shears | Hens and Chicks plant | Mist Spray Water Bottle

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