Hen and Chicks (cultivar 'Jowan') (Sempervivum heuffelii 'Jowan')

Hen and Chicks (cultivar 'Jowan')

Sempervivum heuffelii 'Jowan'

Rosettes cluster like living stone roses, tight and drought-tough. 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 sunlight in cool, temperate climates; avoid prolonged shade
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Watering Water deeply only when the entire soil volume is completely dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root and rosette rot
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Temperature Extremely cold-hardy to -20°C; withstands hot, dry summers with minimal supplemental water
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Fleshy, pointed blue-green leaves with reddish tips, arranged in tight, symmetrical rosettes
  • Flower: Star-shaped pink to purple blooms on tall, leafless flowering stalks
  • Stem: Short, compact central stems; offset "chicks" grow from parent "hen" rosettes
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Care Guide

Watering

Water when soil is fully dry; allow excess water to drain completely from container drainage holes

Fertilization

Diluted balanced succulent feed once every 2 months. Use very diluted feed to avoid burning sensitive succulent roots

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried, rinsed eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to add slow-release calcium without risk of over-fertilization
Pruning
  • Remove dead, brown outer leaves to maintain rosette appearance and improve airflow
  • Trim spent flowering stalks after blooms fade to redirect energy to offset growth
  • Thin overcrowded offsets to prevent overcrowding and reduce fungal disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity symptoms

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes endurance and longevity due to its drought tolerance and spreading growth habit

Usage: Ornamental rock garden plant, container succulent, and alpine garden specimen