Alpines - Section 3 (P-Z) page 3.

Sempervivum

The Sempervivums or "Semps" or Houseleeks are at a sort of crossroads between the alpine and succulent worlds. There are about 25 species, all cold hardy, but a huge number of hybrids. Most of the hybrids and some of the species are easy to grow in a sunny position in poorish, well drained soil. I grow mine in pots but most of the year they are outside. Some of the hairier types I give some shelter to over the winter. I have built up a very small collection over a few years, they have a different sort of appeal to the other alpines I grow, but I like to have them around. Most unfortunately were supplied to me unamed, but the one on the left is Engel's Seedling No.1 and is one of my favourites with these fat rosettes of a lovely pinkish grey.

Above, two types with a fringe of fine hairs at the leaf edge to give a frosting effect. The colour of the rosettes tends to vary with the time of year and full sun brings out interesting shades. Below, two green types, the one on the left further enhanced by red brown leaf tips.

Above left, one of the "blue" Semps, this one tends to be quite slow growing. Right one of the hairy types. Below, another favourite, a form of S.calcareum.

Onto the Primulas.