Onyx Hens and Chicks

Onyx Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum SuperSemp 'Onyx')

Onyx Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum SuperSemp 'Onyx') is a dramatic, extra-large succulent prized for its deep, almost black rosettes, architectural form, and superior hardiness. As part of the SuperSemp series, this variety features significantly larger rosettes than traditional Sempervivum, making it a bold, statement-making addition to rock gardens, borders, and container plantings.

Distinctive Features

'Onyx' forms massive, symmetrical rosettes of thick, fleshy leaves that emerge dark burgundy and mature into a near-black hue in full sun. This intense coloration deepens in cooler temperatures, providing stunning year-round interest. With its vigorous offset production, this variety spreads quickly, creating a dense, weed-suppressing groundcover. In mid-to-late summer, mature rosettes produce tall flower stalks topped with clusters of pink star-shaped blooms, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. This variety grows 6 to 8 inches tall and spreads up to 12 inches per rosette, expanding further through offsets.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for the darkest 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 texture among stones.
• Green Roofs: Thrives in dry, exposed conditions.
• Groundcover: Forms a dense, low-maintenance carpet.
• Container Plantings: Adds a striking focal point to patio pots.
• Crevice and Wall Plantings: Perfect for tight spaces with minimal soil.

Low Maintenance Care

Onyx 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; maintains its striking dark color year-round.

Why Choose Onyx Hens and Chicks?

Onyx Hens and Chicks offers an extraordinary combination of oversized rosettes, deep black foliage, and effortless care, making it an excellent choice for xeriscapes, borders, and container plantings.

• Deep Burgundy-Black Foliage: Provides a striking contrast in any garden setting.
• Large Rosette Growth: SuperSemp series ensures oversized, dramatic impact.
• Attracts Pollinators: Summer flowers provide nectar for bees and butterflies.
• Drought Tolerant: Thrives in dry soils with minimal care.
• Cold Hardy and Evergreen: Maintains its bold structure year-round.

For bold rosettes, rich black hues, and year-round beauty, Onyx Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum SuperSemp 'Onyx') is an outstanding focal point for rock gardens, xeriscapes, and container plantings.