Hen and Chicks (Sempervivum tectorum) potted plant, organic

Family:  Stonecrop (Crassulaceae)

Hardy to Zones 3 to 10

(Common Houseleek, Hen and Chicks, Semper = Always, Vivum = Living)  Probably the commonest of outdoor hardy succulents, this plant has been closely associated with human habitation since antiquity.  Requiring little or no soil and storing water, nutritive and medicinal energy in its plump leaves, it is the mainstay of the “living roof” and is said to protect the house from lightning and fire, which does indeed make sense.  I find them pleasant to chew, slightly lemony and definitely astringent to the mucous membranes.  Traditional use (TWM): antiinflammatory, sore throat and infection, sunburn, old burns, stings of insects, applied to the temples for headache. Plant prefers sun and dryish, fast-draining soil.  Does very well wedged between stones on a wall or tiles on a roof. You just nestle it down into any crack and it’ll take hold.  By the way, it won’t make your house “leek.”  The word leek has an ancient origin meaning houseplant.  Keep these little succulents close to home.  They are really sweet companions. Space 3 to 6 inches apart.

Potted plant, certified organically grown