Sempervivum allionii

Sempervivum allionii Sempervivum globiferum subs. allionii

What is the plant

If you're on the lookout for an extraordinary, drought-resistant addition to your plant collection, look no further than the Rolling Hen and Chicks. This fascinating plant is a surefire conversation starter with its unique rosette-shaped leaves that have a nifty trick up their sleeve—they roll when touched!

Sempervivum globiferum subs. allionii hail from the mountainous regions of Europe and belong to the Sempervivum genus, which boasts over 40 succulent plant species. The name "Sempervivum" itself carries meaning, as it translates to "always alive" in Latin—a testament to the plant's incredible resilience in the face of challenging weather conditions. These hardy beauties are true survivors, withstanding droughts and toughing them out without water for extended periods. Additionally, they have built-in pest and disease resistance, making them a perfect choice for novice gardeners. You'll often spot them in rock gardens or adorning the ground as a delightful cover in gardens with well-draining soil.

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Humidity

Dry

Lighting

Full Sun

Hardiness zone

4a - 10b

Difficulty

Easy

Water
As succulents, these charming plants have a low water requirement. Only water them when the soil is completely dry, as overwatering can lead to disastrous root rot. Keeping an eye on the soil moisture and being mindful of your watering habits will go a long way in ensuring the plant thrives.
Sunlight
It prefers full sun to partial shade and should be placed in a location where it will receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to become scorched, so it's important to provide some shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Fertilizer
They do not require frequent fertilizing and can be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced succulent fertilizer.

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Soil
These Sempervivum species prefer soil that drains well and leans slightly towards the acidic side. To create the perfect blend, mix potting soil with perlite or pumice. This combination provides the necessary drainage while maintaining a suitable pH level for your plant's contentment.
Pruning
They do not require pruning, but dead or damaged leaves can be trimmed off as needed.
Propagation
They can be propagated from offsets or leaf cuttings. To propagate from offsets, carefully remove the small plantlets that form around the base of the parent plant and plant them in well-draining soil. To propagate from leaf cuttings, cut a healthy leaf from the plant and allow it to callus over before planting it in well-draining soil.

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Temperature
It is hardy in USDA zones 3-9. It can tolerate cold temperatures down to -30°F (-34°C) and hot temperatures up to 110°F (43°C).
Container
When it comes to housing your Rolling Hen and Chicks, it's crucial to provide a well-draining container that allows excess water to escape through holes at the bottom. Clay pots or containers made of porous materials like coconut coir are excellent options to keep your plant's roots healthy and happy.
Fun fact
The Rolling Hen and Chicks derive their catchy name from their peculiar leaf behavior, its main identification feature. When you give them a gentle touch, their leaves respond by rolling up, creating a fascinating sight. This intriguing defense mechanism is thought to help protect the plant from herbivores, adding an extra layer of charm to its already captivating nature.
Popularity
96 people already have this plant 25 people have added this plant to their wishlists