In recent years the increase in water wise landscapes has sparked a revival of interest in succulents. Among the many varieties that I use is the particularly tough and hardy Hens-and-Chicks. These plants look like fleshy rosettes and surround themselves with little offsets that will eventually live on their own.

These little garden gems are worthy of our notice any time of year, but particularly right now, they are worth a second look. The cold weather brings out deeper colors in them. And some are covered with an interesting looking fibrous webbing that might be overlooked when blossoms are plentiful, but sparkle when sprinkled with dew drops or frost.

I have planted Hens-and-Chicks in drifts on the edges of my paths and in little nooks and crannies that are viewed as one strolls leisurely through the garden. I put them in pots with other plants, and on their own, to bring them up closer to eye level.

My love of these plants started several years back when a friend gave me a clump of Hens-and-Chicks from her garden. Over the years I have experimented with growing different varieties that I have picked up in my travels, and found a select group that are particularly cold hardy and tough. My collection is not extensive, but I hope it is enough to whet your appetite and peak your interest about these diminutive wonders.

A little clump of Hens-and-Chicks is so cheerful! But, as I have divided them up and shared them with friends and clients, some people have gotten a little misty eyed. As memories of childhood gardens are awakened, they relate their stories to me.  Which is a good reminder to us all that gardens are for people and sharing them is a wonderful connection not soon forgotten.

Botanical name: Sempervivum spp.
Common names: Hens-and-Chicks, houseleeks
USDA zones: Typically 4-9 (hardiness varies between species)
Water requirement: Little to moderate
Sun requirement: Full sun to partial shade
Mature size: Mature rosettes vary from ½” to 6″ in diameter
Tolerances: Frost resistant, drought tolerant, usually deer resistant