Hen and Chicks (Sempervivum 'Fernanda')

Hen and Chicks

Sempervivum 'Fernanda'

Rosettes cluster like living jewels, tough and low-maintenance. Succulent perennial; common name: Hen and Chicks.

Full sun
0–1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial sun; tolerates intense direct sun in cool temperate regions
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Watering Water deeply only when soil is completely dry; avoid wetting rosette centers to prevent rot
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Temperature Extremely cold-hardy; withstands summer heat with proper drainage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Fleshy, pointed green leaves with reddish tips; rosettes 3–8 cm wide
  • Flower: Star-shaped pink to red blooms on thin, upright stalks
  • Stem: Short, compact stems forming dense, spreading clumps
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Care Guide

Watering

Water when soil is fully dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed once every 2 months. Use diluted, low-nitrogen feed to avoid soft, weak growth

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush dried eggshells to fine powder; sprinkle sparingly on soil surface, avoiding direct contact with rosettes
Pruning
  • Remove dead outer leaves to maintain rosette shape and improve airflow
  • Trim spent flower stalks after blooming to redirect energy to new rosettes
  • Thin overcrowded clumps in early spring to reduce competition for resources
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no adverse effects from ingestion

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known irritation from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental rock garden plant; container succulent; low-growing ground cover