Garden Alphabet: Sempervivum [Photo] – A Gardener's Notebook

Garden Alphabet: Sempervivum

Sempervivum /sɛmpəˈvaɪvəm/,^[1] is a genus of about 40 species of flowering plants in the Crassulaceae family, known as houseleeks. Other common names include liveforever and hen and chicks. They are succulent perennials forming mats composed of tufted leaves in rosettes. In favourable conditions they spread rapidly via offsets, and several species are valued in cultivation as groundcover for dry, sunny spots.^[2]

The name Sempervivum has its origin in the Latin semper (“always”) and vivus (“living”), because this perennial plant keeps its leaves in winter and is very resistant to difficult conditions of growth.^[3] The common name houseleek is believed to stem from the traditional practice of growing plants on the roofs of houses to ward off fire and lightning strikes. The Welsh often hold the superstitious belief that having it grow on the roof of the house ensures the health and prosperity of those who live there.^[4]^[5] The plant is not closely related to the true leek, which belongs to the onion family.

Other common names reflect the plant’s ancient association with Thor, the Norse god of thunder, and the Roman Jupiter. Hence names such as “Jupiter’s beard” and the German Donnerbart (“thunder beard”).^[3]— Wikipedia

Get my photos a variety of products including tote bags, mugs, posters and more!