Black Sempervivum Plant

Black Sempervivum Plants add some drama and texture with their fresh green centers that fade out to red-black tips, creating a lovely contrast. Drought tolerant and exceptionally easy to grow, this succulent will produce many 'babies'. This hens and chicks looks great peeking out between pebbles or even edging a fairy garden and is absolutely perfect for containers or a rock garden!

Planting Instructions:

• - Plant in spring or early fall for optimal growth
• - Space plants 6-12 inches apart to allow for spreading

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 6.0-7.0
• - Prefers well-draining soil; amend heavy soil with sand or gravel

Watering Specifics:

• - Water sparingly; allow soil to dry out between waterings
• - Drought-tolerant once established, avoid overwatering

Fertilizer Type:

• - Use a diluted, balanced fertilizer in spring
• - Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote foliage overgrowth

Pruning and Training:

• - Remove dead leaves and spent blooms to encourage new growth
• - Can be divided every few years to maintain vigor

Additional Pest Management:

• - Generally pest-resistant but can attract mealybugs or aphids

Blooming Indicators:

• - Produces star-shaped flowers in late spring to early summer
• - Blooms are typically pink or red, contrasting beautifully with dark foliage

Light Requirements:

• - Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade
• - Needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Hardy in USDA zones 3-9
• - Thrives in a range of temperatures but prefers cooler conditions
• - Protect from excessive moisture to prevent rot

Companion Plants for Black Sempervivum:

• - Sedum: Complements with similar drought tolerance and attractive foliage
• - Thyme: A fragrant groundcover that pairs well in rock gardens
• - Echinacea: Adds height and color to the landscape
• - Gaillardia: Provides vibrant blooms to contrast with dark foliage