Description
Red Beauty hens and chicks is a hardy, rosette-forming Sempervivum succulent with gray-green rosettes tipped with maroon red. It forms about 3–4 inches tall and 6–8 inches across, with smaller “chicks” developing around the parent rosette. Mature rosettes may produce star-shaped flowers in summer; after flowering, that individual rosette dies naturally while its offsets continue growing.
Growing in Alabama and the Southeast
Plant in full sun to light afternoon shade in gritty, sharply draining soil. In Alabama’s humid summers, drainage is more important than frequent watering: use a raised rock garden, sloped bed, or container with drainage holes, especially where native soil is heavy clay. Water thoroughly when the mix is dry, then let it dry again; avoid wet crowns and soggy winter soil. Some afternoon protection can help during extreme summer heat. These cold-hardy succulents can stay outdoors through most Alabama winters when kept well drained.
Remove dead leaves, allow offsets to fill in as groundcover, or separate chicks and replant them in a free-draining mix. Ideal for troughs, rock gardens, and small containers.
