Sempervivum ‘Red Lion’ is a visually appealing succulent with a distinctive rosette form and vibrant coloring. It displays deep red hues, often with green or yellow tips, reaching up to 6 inches tall and 12 inches wide, making it a popular choice for garden designs. Its striking appearance and low-maintenance nature contribute to its widespread appeal. Its thick, fleshy leaves are sometimes edged with fine cilia, enhancing its unique texture. This resilient plant adapts well to various settings.
Essential Care for ‘Red Lion’
Light Requirements
Sempervivum ‘Red Lion’ thrives in abundant sunlight for intense red coloration. Full sun to partial shade supports healthy growth and vibrant appearance. Insufficient light can cause the plant to etiolate, resulting in stretched, pale growth and a duller overall color. Indoors, a south-facing window or supplemental grow lights ensure adequate light, especially in winter.
Watering Needs
As a succulent, Sempervivum ‘Red Lion’ is drought-tolerant and sensitive to overwatering. Allow the soil to dry completely between watering sessions to prevent root rot. Water thoroughly until water drains, then allow the top 2 to 3 inches of soil to dry completely before rewatering. During hot summer months, weekly watering may be appropriate, while in winter, watering should be significantly reduced or stopped entirely, especially if temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Preferences
Sempervivum ‘Red Lion’ requires a well-draining soil mix. Sandy or gritty soil compositions mimic its natural rocky habitats. Heavy, water-retentive soils are detrimental and can lead to root rot. Use a specialized cactus or succulent potting mix, or blend your own with sand, pumice, or perlite and a small amount of compost.
Temperature and Hardiness
This succulent is notably cold-hardy and withstands a broad range of temperatures. Sempervivum ‘Red Lion’ is generally hardy in USDA Zones 4 through 10, enduring temperatures as low as -20°F (-28.9°C). It thrives in cold winters, often surviving under a blanket of snow. While it can tolerate extreme cold, ideal growth occurs between 65°F and 75°F (18°C and 24°C).
Planting and Propagation
Planting Location and Method
Select a location with good drainage and ample sunlight. Ideal spots include rock gardens, container arrangements, or xeriscapes. Ensure containers have drainage holes. When transplanting, gently place the plant into well-draining soil, ensuring roots are covered and the rosette sits just above the soil line.
Propagating Offsets
Sempervivum ‘Red Lion’ naturally produces “chicks” or offsets, which are small plantlets that emerge from the base of the parent rosette on horizontal stems called stolons. These offsets provide a simple and effective method for propagation. To propagate, carefully separate a chick from the mother plant, ensuring it has developed some roots. The separated offset can then be planted directly into a pot filled with well-draining succulent soil, or placed on the soil surface to encourage rooting.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Overwatering is the most frequent problem encountered with Sempervivum ‘Red Lion’, leading to mushy, swollen leaves and potentially root rot. If symptoms of overwatering appear, cease watering immediately and allow the soil to dry out completely.
Etiolation, characterized by stretched and pale growth, occurs when the plant does not receive enough light. Moving the plant to a brighter location or supplementing with grow lights can help prevent this issue.
While generally pest-resistant, minor infestations such as mealybugs can occasionally occur. These can often be addressed by isolating the plant and treating affected areas with rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap.