Sempervivum tectorum Sempervivum tectorum

Sempervivum tectorum is a species of flowering plant in the family Crassulaceae, native to the mountains of southern Europe, cultivated in the whole of Europe for its appearance and a Roman tradition claiming that it protects buildings against lightning strikes.  Easily grown in average, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates some light shade. Likes sandy or gravelly soils. Tolerates poor soils and some drought.  Needs sharp soil drainage to perform well.  Avoid overwatering.  Plants spread by offsets to form colonies. Individual rosettes die after bloom and should be removed from the garden at that time.  This plant is moderately salt tolerant.

Sempervivum tectorum works great in the rock garden, border front, rock crevices, along stone walls, small area ground cover, edging or foundations. Containers. Best when planted in groups or massed as a ground cover.