Sempervivum Varieties (Hen and Chick Succulents, House Leeks or Roof Plants)

With over 50 species and thousands of cultivars, Sempervivum plants are commonly called Hen and Chick Succulents as well House Leeks and Roof Plants. They are cold tolerant and have been around since early Roman Days.

Easy to grow these are one of the more cold hardy succulents and very easy for beginners. Most are frost tolerant right down to around -6c (20f), so are ideal for the UK, cooler parts of Europe and the USA.

Sempervivum varieties vary in colour, form and size. We take a look at different species and cultivars of this varied genus commonly called Hen and chicks/Roof Plants or simply ’Semps' . These are a cold tolerant easy care group of plants. They can be grown in the garden, or in containers.

This collection gives the viewer an idea of what varieties are available to collector and gardeners alike.

Varieties Mentioned include :

Sempervivum andrachnoideum
Sempervivum borissii cilosum
Sempervivum corsair
Sempervivum reindardt
Sempervivum Griggs Surprise
Sempervivum rotkop
SempervivumTopaz
Sempervivum Pacific Red Rose
Sempervivum Lavender Doll
Sempervivum Montanna Red
Sempervivum Adel Moed
Sempervivum Blue Boy

Sempervivum are also traditionally known as 'House Leeks' and some species such as Sempervivum tectorum were among the first 'Roof Plants' .

They will grow on roofs with very little soil....

They were grown on the roofs of houses in Europe to protect the house from storms, deflect lightning and also ward off evil spirits. So depending on the climate, they are a great roof plant. The name Sempervivum means 'live forever'.