Hen and Chicks

Hen and Chicks (Sempervivum tectorum) is a hardy succulent known for its mat-forming growth and adorable rosette “families.” The central plant — the “hen” — produces smaller baby rosettes — the “chicks” — that cluster around it, eventually forming dense, symmetrical colonies.

Native to Europe and grown for centuries on rooftops and rock walls, this succulent thrives in full sun and poor soil, making it one of the easiest outdoor or indoor container succulents to grow. It can tolerate frost and even snow, which sets it apart from more tropical varieties.

Each rosette blooms only once in its lifetime, sending up a tall flower stalk before dying — but don’t worry, the chicks will continue on.