Black Hens and Chicks

Black Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum 'Black')

Black Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum 'Black') is a striking, cold-hardy succulent known for its deep burgundy to nearly black rosettes, compact growth habit, and excellent drought tolerance. This low-maintenance perennial provides dramatic color contrast, unique texture, and an eye-catching focal point in rock gardens, green roofs, and container plantings.

Distinctive Features

'Black' forms a dense cluster of symmetrical, fleshy-leaved rosettes that start green at the base and darken to deep burgundy or black in response to full sun and seasonal changes. This color intensifies in cooler weather, making it an excellent year-round garden feature. In mid-to-late summer, mature rosettes produce tall flower stalks topped with clusters of pinkish-red star-shaped blooms that attract pollinators. This variety grows 3 to 5 inches tall and spreads up to 12 inches, making it an ideal choice for small-scale groundcover, container gardening, and crevice plantings.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for best foliage color and compact growth.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, sandy, or rocky soil; tolerates poor soils.
• Water: Drought-tolerant once established; requires minimal watering.
• Humidity: Prefers dry to moderate humidity; avoid excessive moisture.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9, making it highly adaptable.

Ideal Uses

• Rock Gardens: Provides bold contrast and architectural form.
• Green Roofs: Thrives in dry, exposed conditions.
• Groundcover: Spreads quickly to form a dense, weed-suppressing cluster.
• Container Plantings: Stunning rosette form makes it ideal for patio displays.
• Crevice and Wall Plantings: Tucks into small spaces and thrives with minimal soil.

Low Maintenance Care

Black Hens and Chicks is a resilient, easy-care perennial that thrives with minimal attention.

• Watering: Water sparingly; allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
• Pruning: Remove spent flower stalks and older rosettes as they naturally die off.
• Fertilizing: Minimal fertilization required; thrives in lean soils.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Highly resistant to pests, deer, and rabbits.
• Winter Care: Cold hardy and evergreen; retains deep color throughout the year.

Why Choose Black Hens and Chicks?

Black Hens and Chicks offers bold rosette color, drought resistance, and minimal care requirements, making it an excellent choice for xeriscapes, borders, and container plantings.

• Dark Burgundy-Black Foliage: Creates a dramatic contrast in any planting.
• Compact, Spreading Habit: Forms dense, attractive clusters.
• Attracts Pollinators: Summer flowers provide nectar for bees and butterflies.
• Drought Tolerant: Thrives in dry soils with minimal care.
• Cold Hardy and Evergreen: Maintains structure and color year-round.

For unique foliage, structural beauty, and effortless care, Black Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum 'Black') is an exceptional focal point choice for rock gardens, xeriscapes, and container plantings.