Jovibarba calcarea, Houseleek, Hen and Chicks
sempervivum calcareum
Also known as: ["Jovibarba calcarea","Houseleek","Hen and Chicks"]
Overview
A hardy succulent forming rosettes of fleshy leaves, often with reddish or purple tints, native to rocky, calcareous areas in Europe.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Sempervivum |
| Botanical Name: | Sempervivum calcareum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or containers with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, gritty soil like cactus mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or when dead leaves are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light to full sun (4–6 hours/day). Adjust to avoid scorching in intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from harsh midday sun; place indoors near a south-facing window or outdoors in dappled shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer; avoid direct sun in winter.
Watering
every 7–10 days in summer, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-draining, gritty soil with added sand or perlite
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries quickly; avoid peat-heavy mixes; use terra cotta pots for better drainage.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C). Tolerates mild frost but thrives in cooler conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from frost; keep away from heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; skip winter feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets (pups).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Remove offset.
- Let cut end dry for a few days.
- Plant in dry soil.
- Water lightly after roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, bright indirect light; moderate humidity; good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and sand.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, small pot, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callous before planting; use a small pot to avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Gently pull off dead leaves or use clean scissors to trim.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged leaves to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean fingers or small, sharp scissors.
Checklist
Remove dead leaves; check for pests; maintain compact shape.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 5-inch pot).
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant outgrows its container.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; ensure drainage; handle roots gently; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting the leaves. Allow excess water to drain freely from the pot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 4–6 weeks, depending on conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; avoid heavy organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf discoloration (yellowing or browning), stunted growth, or mushy leaves.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaves to curl or discolor if exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors during hard freezes; ensure good air circulation to prevent rot.
Hot Stress
Can lead to sunburn, dehydration, or root rot if overwatered in high heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent ventilation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season only.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring–summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSempervivum calcareum is non-toxic to cats. No toxic effects are documented from ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSempervivum calcareum is non-toxic to dogs. No adverse effects are expected from ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSempervivum calcareum is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Sempervivum calcareum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially during winter.
Q: Can Sempervivum calcareum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, but it requires bright light and good air circulation to thrive.
Q: Does Sempervivum calcareum attract wildlife?
A: It can attract bees and butterflies, making it a good choice for wildlife gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days in summer, e |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
