Common houseleek has moderate disease resistance and is more sensitive to humidity. It becomes vulnerable to disease when humidity is high and tends to develop root rot during dormancy. In terms of care, Common houseleek is drought-tolerant but requires more water in the growing season. Watering should be greatly reduced or stopped entirely during the dormant period. Common houseleek is appropriate for those with some growing experience, though it can be challenging to care for, particularly in dormancy. It is especially suitable for people who can dedicate time to its care during the winter months.
How to keep Sempervivum Minutum.
Light
The typical houseleek flourishes ideally in circumstances where it is subjected to plenty of daylight every day, similar to the environmental conditions of its original habitat. Throughout different developmental phases, constant sunlight promotes its robust growth. While it can tolerate some degree of sun filtering, inadequate light can impede its progress. On the other hand, too much exposure to sunlight can be harmful.
Temperature
The common houseleek, originally from the mountainous areas of Southern Europe, can withstand temperatures down to 0℉ (-18℃). Nevertheless, it thrives best in temperatures between 60 and 95℉ (15 to 35℃). In the hotter periods, it can be placed outside to enjoy direct sunlight. Conversely, during colder seasons, it needs to be housed indoors where temperatures do not drop under 45℉ (7℃).
Fertilizer
A light application of fertilizer 1-2 times yearly during its growth period is ample for the Common houseleek. Refrain from fertilizing during the winter and summer seasons when it is in a dormant state. For plants that have been repotted, lessen the amount of fertilizer used and wait a few months post-repotting before applying any. Regular fertilization contributes to robust growth and promotes blossoming.
Pot & Repot
Choose a container slightly bigger than the current one, with excellent drainage, for repotting the Common houseleek. Utilize a gritty succulent or cactus mix that provides good drainage. Gently take out the plant from its previous pot, clear away extra soil, and replant it at the same level. To let any root injuries recover, delay watering it for a few days. Repot it during the spring or autumn, and place it in a well-lit location.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Succulent, Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Sempervivum
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 3-9
- Mature Height
- 15 cm to 49 cm
- Mature Spread
- 6 cm to 30 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Red, Blue, Purple, Yellow, Gray
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Purple, Pink, Red, Yellow
- Flower Size
- 5.08 cm to 6.35 cm
- Bloom Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer
