Houseleek
Sempervivum tectorum · Family Crassulaceae
Also known as: sempervivum, hens and chicks, roof houseleek
- Light
- Full sun
- Watering
- Every 14 days
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pet-safe
- Yes
Care
Where to put it
A sunny windowsill, rockery or shallow pot outdoors.
Light
Full sun. Fully hardy outdoors in the UK.
Watering
Water only when the compost is dry. Good drainage is essential.
About the plant
The houseleek forms compact rosettes that multiply around the mother plant. It is extremely resistant to cold and drought. It looks lovely in shallow pots, green roofs and rock gardens.
Origin
Native to the mountains of southern Europe, such as the Alps and Pyrenees, in rocky soils.
What it likes
- Full sun
- Gritty compost
- Infrequent watering
What it dislikes
- Waterlogging
- Shade
- Muggy, humid heat
Did you know?
The name tectorum means 'of the roofs', as in Europe it was planted on roofs to protect against lightning.
