Sempervivum ‘Ruby Heart’ (25) BR Plants

Description

Product Description

Sempervivum ‘Ruby Heart’ (25) Bare Root PlantssCommon Name: Hen & Chicks, Houseleek

This selection forms rosettes of sharply pointed, silvery blue to blue-green leaves which are flushed rosy red at the base. This color varies by season, intensifying in cold temperatures. In midsummer, unique pinkish purple flowers are held aloft on short, leafy stalks.

Sempervivum is comprised of one large rosette called the “hen” which sprouts many smaller rosettes around it called “chicks”. As the plants age, the “hen” may die out and be replaced by the “chicks”. Plants can be divided easily at any time by pulling up some of the “chicks” and replanting them elsewhere.

This plant is particularly effective when planted in the cracks and crevices of stone walls or walkways. It is also very attractive in containers. The name Sempervivum means “live forever”.

Sempervivum is the perfect plant for hot, dry, sunny locations with very well-drained soil. Though they can adapt to a variety of soil types, they perform best in gritty soil. If a groundcover effect is desired, space plants close together because they grow slowly.

Height: 3.0-4.0 InchesSpread: 6.0-8.0 InchesHardiness Zones: 3,4,5,6,7,8Flower Color: Pink shades, Purple shadesFoliage Color: Green shades, Blue shadesFull Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun)Low Water NeedsPoor to Average Soil QualityBloomtime: MidsummerDeer and Rabbit ResistantEvergreenGrowth Rate: Slow

Border Plant, Container, Drought Tolerant, Easy To Grow, Ground Cover, Salt Tolerant, Small, Miniature

Sempervivum ‘Ruby Heart’ is a charming succulent that is sure to catch your eye with its unique coloration. Here is what you need to know about this lovely plant:

Appearance:

• Rosettes: Forms tight, symmetrical rosettes of fleshy, pointed leaves. The leaves have a striking combination of colors: silvery blue-green tips and a vibrant ruby-red base. This red coloration is most intense in cooler temperatures.
• Size: Typically grows to about 3-4 inches in diameter, forming a dense mat or clump as it produces offsets.
• Flowers: Produces small, star-shaped flowers on short stalks that emerge from the center of the rosette. The flowers are usually pink or reddish-purple. As with most Sempervivums, the rosette that flowers will die back, but it will have produced offsets (“chicks”) to continue the colony.

Growing Conditions:

• Sunlight: Prefers full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily) to bring out the best red coloration and maintain a compact form. It can tolerate some light shade, but the color may be less intense.
• Soil: Requires well-drained soil. Soggy soil is a major problem for Sempervivums, as it leads to root rot. A gritty or sandy soil mix is ideal.
• Water: Extremely drought-tolerant once established. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering ¹ is the most common mistake.
• Hardiness Zones: Generally hardy in USDA zones 3-8, making it adaptable to a wide range of climates.
• Temperature: Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, including frost.

Benefits:

• Eye-Catching Color: The combination of silvery blue-green and ruby-red creates a visually striking display.
• Low Maintenance: Exceptionally easy to care for, requiring minimal attention.
• Drought Tolerant: Perfect for dry gardens, rock gardens, or areas with limited water.
• Deer Resistant: Generally, not a favorite of deer.
• Versatile: Can be grown in the ground, in containers, or even in crevices in rocks or walls.
• Propagation: Easily propagated by separating the offsets (chicks) from the mother plant.

Care Tips:

• Planting: Plant in well-drained soil in a sunny location. Space plants about 6-8 inches apart to allow for spreading.
• Watering: Water sparingly, especially during the growing season. Reduce watering in the winter.
• Fertilizing: Usually does not require fertilization.
• Repotting (for containers): Repot only when necessary, as Sempervivums prefer to be somewhat root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix.
• Propagation: Gently remove offsets (chicks) from the mother plant and plant them in well-drained soil.

Sempervivum ‘Ruby Heart’ is a fantastic choice for gardeners who want a low-maintenance, visually stunning succulent with a touch of red. Its unique coloration and adaptability make it a valuable addition to any garden.

Mature field grown plant shipped bare root.

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