Sempervivum or Hen and Chicks plants as they are commonly known, are mat-forming succulents that produce clusters of rosettes. The parent rosettes are the “hens,” and the smaller rosettes that spring from them are the “chicks” or “chickens.” This low-growing perennial will quickly spread to 60 cm or more in width. Although grown for its foliage, hens and chicks do flower on a tall 30cm flower stalk. The foliage of hens and chicks plants can be red, green or some mixture thereof. Sempervivums are frost hardy to -40°C. Grow Sempervivum plants in full sun to partial shade and in well-drained soil. In the southern hemisphere Sempervivums will profit from partial shade; but the requirement for well-drained soil is a must in any zone.