Purple Beauty Hens and Chicks

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

6-11 Inches

Mature Spread

6-18 Inches

Growing Zones

3 to 8

Sempervivum Purple Beauty, more commonly referred to as Purple Beauty Hens-and-Chicks, is a variety known for its compact, fresh look. These Purple Beauties are medium to large rosettes of rounded, burgundy-green leaves with soft-blue and purple-toned tips, packed around an internal stem which showcases the sempervivum pattern of radial symmetry. The rosette of leaves, the “Hens” send out many offshoots, the “Chicks”, which are easy to propagate. Hens-and-Chicks are approximately 3 inches in height. In mid-summer, pink and purple hued flowers spike.

Sempervivum, or, “always alive” is a fitting name for these evergreen, easy-to-grow succulents. They are mono-carpic, and will die after blooming, but the chicks quickly multiply so your patch will never be empty. They are low-maintenance and thrive even in the worst soils, but well-drained, gravel areas are ideal. Native to Southern Europe and Northern Africa, they are tolerant of heat, drought and neglect, and can also survive frost and snow. They multiply easily, spreading up to 12 inches. The “Chicks” surrounding the “Hen” rosette each have their own root system, but they can also be propagated like standard succulent clippings.

Purple Beauty Hens and Chicks Care

Use lightweight, quick-draining potting soil when planting or transplanting your Hens-and-Chicks. Loamy, sandy soil can also help your plants thrive. These stunning succulents prefer full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade. Take care not to overcrowd your Hens-and-Chicks as it can cause them to flower prematurely, not allowing the offshoots proper time to take root. Cuttings should be taken during the growth season - late spring is ideal. The plants are dormant in the winter.

The greatest threat to Hens-and-Chicks is overwatering, as their delicate roots tend to rot when over-saturated. Swollen leaves that feel mushy to the touch are a sign that you’re watering your plant too often. You should water your Purple Beauty Hens-and-Chicks when the soil is dry to the touch. Hens-and-Chicks require more water during hot summer months.

Purple Beauty Hens and Chicks Spacing

Purple Beauties are excellent plants for miniature gardens, cracks and crevices in stone walls and walkways, and rock gardens. They are excellent container plants and can survive almost anywhere. Hens-and-Chicks should be spaced 12 to 18 inches apart when planting or transplanting.