Sempervivum ‘Oddity’ is a distinctive succulent. Its unusual form and hardy nature make it a popular choice for various garden settings and container displays. This unique plant offers a captivating addition to any collection.
Unveiling Sempervivum ‘Oddity’
Sempervivum ‘Oddity’, also known as Sempervivum tectorum ‘Oddity’ or ‘Trumpeter’, stands out with its truly unique foliage. Unlike typical broad, pointed Sempervivum leaves, this cultivar features leaves that curl inward, forming hollow, pipe-like tubes or quills. These tubular leaves are typically a vibrant lime green, often developing reddish to purple tips, especially when exposed to ample sunlight or cooler temperatures.
This succulent grows in a dense rosette form, with each rosette potentially reaching up to 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter and containing 50-60 leaves. It maintains an evergreen, mat-forming habit, spreading over time. Sempervivum ‘Oddity’ originated as a hybrid developed by American succulent enthusiast Sandy McPherson in 1977 and received the Bronze Rosette Award in 1978 for its novel appearance.
Caring for Your ‘Oddity’
Light Requirements
Sempervivum ‘Oddity’ thrives in full sun to partial shade. At least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily is beneficial for optimal growth and color. While it can tolerate afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates where intense midday sun might cause scorching, ample light helps maintain its compact rosette form and vibrant coloration.
Watering Needs
These succulents are drought-tolerant and prefer infrequent watering, aligning with the “soak and dry” method. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. During the active growing season, watering once every two weeks may be sufficient, but reduce or cease this frequency entirely during winter dormancy.
Ideal Soil Mix
A well-draining soil mix is paramount for Sempervivum ‘Oddity’. A commercial succulent or cactus potting mix is suitable, or create your own by amending regular potting soil with gritty materials like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging and rot.
Temperature and Hardiness
Sempervivum ‘Oddity’ is a cold-hardy succulent, generally hardy in USDA Zones 3-8. Protection from excessive moisture during winter is beneficial, as wet conditions combined with cold can lead to rot. In regions with extreme heat, providing afternoon shade can help prevent leaf burn.
Fertilization
Sempervivum ‘Oddity’ has low fertilizer requirements and typically does not need regular fertilization. If fertilizing, a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer for succulents can be applied sparingly during the active growing season. Over-fertilization, especially with high-nitrogen fertilizers, can lead to less vibrant coloration and softer growth.
Propagating ‘Oddity’
The primary method for propagating Sempervivum ‘Oddity’ is through its offsets, often called “chicks.” These small rosettes form around the base of the mother plant. Once large enough, they can be gently separated from the parent plant using a clean, sharp knife or scissors.
After separation, allow the cut end of the offset to “callus” or dry for one to two days. This callusing process helps prevent rot when planted. Once callused, plant the offset in well-draining soil, ensuring roots are covered and leaves remain above the soil surface. While seed propagation is possible for Sempervivum species, ‘Oddity’ is a hybrid and will not grow true to type from seed.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
One of the most common issues affecting Sempervivum ‘Oddity’ is rot, primarily caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Signs include mushy, discolored, or soft leaves, often starting at the base of the rosette. If detected, remove affected parts and allow the plant to dry thoroughly.
Insufficient light can lead to etiolation, where the plant stretches and develops elongated, pale growth as it searches for more light. This compromises the plant’s compact form and vibrant color. Moving the plant to a brighter location can prevent further etiolation, though stretched growth will not revert. Pests such as mealybugs or aphids can occasionally infest Sempervivum ‘Oddity’. These can often be dislodged with a strong spray of water or treated with an insecticidal soap.