Sempervivium calcareum

About Sempervivum calcareum

Hailing from the sun-drenched, limestone slopes of the southern European Alps, particularly in France and Italy, the Sempervivum calcareum (often called the Stone Rose or Houseleek) is a true mountain treasure. It forms beautifully symmetrical, sculptural rosettes, typically growing 4 to 6 inches wide. Its plump, fleshy leaves boast a captivating color contrast. The base is a lovely blue-green or gray-green, while the sharp leaf tips proudly display a rich burgundy-red hue. You might notice these red tones deepening beautifully when your plant enjoys plenty of sunshine or cooler temperatures.

How to care for Sempervivum calcareum

Sun: Sempervivum calcareum will be happiest and show its best colors when it receives plenty of bright light. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, whether outdoors or placed near a bright south-facing window indoors. Some gentle afternoon shade in very hot climates is appreciated.

Water: Like most succulents, this succulent plant prefers its soil to dry out completely between waterings. When you do water, give it a thorough drink, but then let the soil become dry again before the next watering. It's best to water the soil directly and avoid getting water sitting in the center of the rosette, as this can lead to rot. During the cooler winter months, you'll find it needs significantly less frequent watering.

Pot & Soil: Choosing a pot with a drainage hole is essential. A shallow, wide pot works well to accommodate the way it spreads by producing offsets (little "chicks"). Plant it in a fast-draining cactus or succulent mix. You can boost drainage even further by adding some perlite or pumice to the mix.

Fertilizer: Sempervivum calcareum is not a heavy feeder. To support its growth, you can give it a light feeding just once a year in early spring using a balanced fertilizer (like a 5-5-5 formula), diluted to half strength. Over-fertilizing can actually weaken its lovely, compact form.

Pests & Disease: The good news is that these plants are naturally quite resistant to pests. However, it's always wise to keep an occasional eye out for common succulent visitors like aphids or mealybugs. If you spot any, they can usually be managed gently with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Good air circulation around your plant also helps prevent any potential fungal issues.

Temperature Preferences: Sempervivium calcareum is incredibly tough when it comes to temperature! It thrives in cool to moderate conditions and is exceptionally cold-hardy, tolerating temperatures down to -20°F (-29°C) when planted in the ground (USDA zones 5-8). It loves summer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) but handles heat well if there's good airflow. In winter, it naturally goes semi-dormant, which is why it needs less water. The key for winter survival is keeping its roots dry in freezing temperatures – excellent drainage is essential.

Propagation: One of the joys of this plant is how easily it multiplies! It readily produces numerous offsets ("chicks") around the base of the mother plant. In spring or summer, you can gently twist or cut these little rosettes off (making sure they have some roots if possible) and pot them up to start new plants. While growing from seed is an option, it's a much slower process.

More Information

Primary color: blue-green
Secondary color: red
Cold hardiness: Zone 5a-8b (from -20°F to 20°F)
Product format: rooted in 2" nursery pot
Suitability: balcony, Window, Garden
Propagation: sidebuds
Special characteristic: low maintenance, slow-growing

We pack all shipments by hand. 

We have many years of experience shipping live succulents and cactus plants. We pay close attention to packing and have developed an expert shipping method. All succulents are packed and protected with polypropylene cotton (this is a stuffing used for dolls). We find this is the most effective material for protecting live plants while in transit. It is important to us that you are able to Keep going and Keep growing without any stress about the quality of the product or packaging.

Shipping Speed

In general, it takes 3 to 10 days for plants to arrive after you place your order. All orders will be shipped out 48 hours after you place them. We ship the orders on work days(from Monday to Saturday) and all year round. In normal conditions, it will take 3-10 days for you to receive the package. Estimated shipping times are offered as needed.

HOLIDAYS: During weeks in which a holiday occurs - Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's, etc. - shipping may be delayed until the following week.

EXTREME WEATHER NOTICE: The Next Gardener reserves the right to hold shipments during storms or periods of extreme heat or cold. This is to ensure your plant does not suffer while it is in transit.

Winter shipping

We insist on shipping succulents to our customers all year round. However due to the extreme winter weather, although we pack succulents with as much protective material as possible, plants are still at increased risk of frost on their way to colder areas. We highly recommend adding one 72-hour heat pack to your order or you can request a hold on the package until it warms up.

Please note that The Next Gardener is not responsible for packages that suffer cold damage without a heat pack. We cannot control the weather. Order at your own risk.

Hawaii, Alaska, and Other US Territories

Fortunately, shipping is available to Alaska, Guam, and other U.S. Territories. However, due to numerous factors beyond our control, including customs checks and shipping delays, free shipping to Hawaii and Puerto Rico is not an option. And we can not provide the 14-day quality guarantee for orders going to Hawaii and Puerto Rico. The buyer will assume all risk of damage when a delivery is delayed. We appreciate your understanding.

Sorry. No International Shipping for now!!!