Sempervivum ‘Kalinda’, also known as Hens and Chicks, is a popular, low-maintenance succulent. Its hardiness and adaptability make it a suitable choice for various outdoor settings, offering visual appeal with minimal effort.
Distinctive Characteristics
Sempervivum ‘Kalinda’ forms tight, evergreen rosettes of fleshy leaves. The foliage features an apple green base that transitions to vibrant blood-red or burgundy tips. This coloration intensifies during cooler temperatures or bright sunlight. Rosettes can grow up to 5-6 inches in diameter. The satiny texture of the leaves makes it suitable for rock gardens or containers.
Cultivation and Care
Light Requirements
Sempervivum ‘Kalinda’ thrives in full sun, which encourages vibrant colors and compact growth. At least six hours of direct sunlight daily is ideal. While it tolerates partial sun, this may result in less intense coloration and a looser rosette form. In extremely hot climates, protecting it from the harshest afternoon sun may be beneficial.
Watering Needs
These succulents are drought-tolerant once established and require infrequent watering. Use a “soak and dry” method, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is a common issue that can lead to root rot. During winter dormancy, significantly reduce or cease watering, especially if temperatures are consistently low.
Soil Preferences
Well-draining soil is essential for Sempervivum ‘Kalinda’. The plant prefers gritty or sandy soils and struggles in heavy, clay-rich mediums that retain too much moisture. Use a specialized succulent or cactus mix, or amend regular potting soil with materials like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to improve drainage. Good winter drainage is particularly important to prevent rot.
Temperature Tolerance
Sempervivum ‘Kalinda’ is very cold hardy, making it suitable for year-round outdoor planting in many regions. It thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 to 9, withstanding temperatures well below freezing. The plant is also resilient in hot, dry conditions once established.
Propagation
Sempervivum ‘Kalinda’ is easy to propagate, primarily through its natural production of offsets, often called “chicks.” These small rosettes form around the base of the mother plant, or “hen,” on horizontal stems. Once offsets develop their own roots, they can be gently detached from the parent plant. Replant these separated chicks in well-draining soil, where they will quickly establish and grow into new mature plants.
Common Issues and Solutions
While Sempervivum ‘Kalinda’ is low-maintenance, it can encounter a few problems, primarily related to moisture. Root rot is the most common issue, occurring from excessive watering or poor drainage. To remedy this, ensure the plant is in well-draining soil and water only when the soil is completely dry. Leggy growth, characterized by stretched rosettes, indicates insufficient light and can be corrected by moving the plant to a brighter, sunnier location. Pest infestations are rare, but mealybugs or aphids may appear and can be addressed with insecticidal soap or by rinsing the plant with water.