Sharply pointed foliage forms large rosettes of smoky purple with hints of green and burgundy red. A clutch of chicks will ‘hatch’ to surround the larger ‘hens’. Short pastel pink flower spikes may develop in summer. Cooler temperatures transform the foliage to burgundy.
Once, every grandchild received a start of this plant from their grandmother. Rosettes of leaves (the hens) send out many offsets (the chicks) which can be pulled off and transplanted. Prefers sun in almost any soil. Unusual flower spikes are produced eventually. A resurgence of interest has Sempervivums used in living wreaths, spilling out of clay pots, old tea kettles and even retired work boots.