Sempervivum tectorum oddity is an unusual succulent when compared to other succulents. They do, in fact, form little clumps, and they will continue to grow that way at a rapid rate. They belong to the genus sempervivum and family Crassulaceae.
The common names of the Sempervivum tectorum oddity are Oddity Hens and Chicks, Hens and Chicks, Oddity Houseleek etc. Scientific name of these plants is Sempervivum tectorum cv. Oddity. If you are interested in exploring these plants, keep on reading this article as I am going to cover all the care tips they require during their growth. Sempervivum tectorum oddity are hailing from Europe. In fact, this is a creation of an American succulent enthusiast called Sandy Mcpherson.
One look care guide
| Botanical Name | Sempervivum tectorum cv. Oddity. |
| Common Name | Oddity Hens and Chicks Hens and Chicks Oddity Houseleek |
| Plant Type | Succulent |
| Mature Size | 10 cm wide rosettes |
| Sun Exposure | Full sunlight to partial sunlight |
| Soil Type | Gritty, well draining |
| Soil pH | Range of 6.6- 7.5 |
| Flower Color | Pink |
| Hardiness Zones | 3 – 11 |
| Native Area | Europe |
| Toxicity | Nontoxic |
| Average price | $ 8 |
How do I identify sempervivum tectorum oddity?
Sempervivum tectorum oddity forms green leaves, and they form in the shape of a tube. When the weather conditions get cooler, their leaf tips turn red. They tend to look like cigarette papers as their leaves form in dense clusters. The leaves of the Sempervivum tectorum oddity develop as hollow and stiff as well. Besides, they will grow upright and consist of pointed pipes too.
The colors of the Sempervivum tectorum oddity are blue-green. Usually, they would consist of purple tips as well. The rosettes of the Sempervivum tectorum oddity would be about 10 cm in width. The rosette would consist of about 50-60 leaves. Their blooms would be reddish purple colored and resemble the look of a star. The stems would be hairy and will grow in an upright manner. The Sempervivum tectorum oddity rosettes would perish right after they produce flowers. However, there will be new rosettes which will replace them.
Size of the plant
The Sempervivum tectorum oddity rosette width would be about 10 cm wide.
Growth rate
These plants grow in a mat forming growth habit. Sempervivum tectorum oddity are a fast growing set of plants as they form little clumps and spread faster.
How do you take care of sempervivum tectorum oddity?
Light Requirement
Sempervivum tectorum oddity plants have typical sunlight requirements just like other succulents. That literally means, they would perform well given that they get balanced levels of full sunlight as well as filtered sunlight. When you grow them indoors,a bright sunny windowsill would work well with the plants. However, keep them far from glass windows unless there will be intensified heat levels for the plants which would be harmful. Refrain in exposing the plants for harsh sunlight unless it could scorch the plants.
Temperature and humidity
A temperature range of 65 degrees Fahrenheit – 70 degrees Fahrenheit ( 18 degrees Celsius – 21 degrees Celsius). would go well with the Sempervivum tectorum oddity plants.
Is it cold hardy?
USDA Hardiness Zone
Sempervivum tectorum oddity plants prefer to grow in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 – 11.
Watering Requirement
Sempervivum tectorum oddity plants are not demanding when it comes to water requirements. Never over water them as it could be unhealthy for them. However, if you have new Sempervivum tectorum oddity plants which you have grown recently, consider watering them once a week. However, it is
Soil Requirement Type / pH
An excellent draining soil mix is essential for the Sempervivum tectorum oddity plants to grow well. However, they can survive in poor sandy soil mix. Furthermore, you can consider adding some peat into heavier soil so that the draining of the soil would be befitted. A ph. range of 6.6- 7.5 would suit these plants well.
Pot size Potting and Repotting
Terracotta or clay pots would be more appropriate to grow these plants. Besides, you do not need to repot them on a constant basis. Before repotting, ensure that their soil is entirely dry. Only then, you start the proceedings. To repot, first remove the plant from the pot. Next, knock away the older soil from the roots and observe the plant well to spot any rotten root parts.
If there are any cuttings, you may treat them with fungicides Next let them become dry and then place them in a well draining soil mix. After that, water the soil whenever you find their soil is dry. Do not make their soil waterlogged, as then it would lead to root rot.
Where to Plant
Stone patio nursery or a rock wall would suit these plants the best. You can simply tuck them in a cleft or wrap them with a stone divider. When you provide a stone divider, it will ensure that the plants get sufficing warmth and the protection for its roots as well.
Fertilizer and time of year
A controlled release fertilizer would suit them the best. Further you need to feed them during the start of their growing season and make sure that you dilute it to quarter strength and then use.
Dormancy
Sempervivum tectorum oddity plants go into dormancy during winter.
Other plants Pairs Well With
You can grow them along with crawling sedum as it will be a fine combination.
Toxicity
Sempervivum tectorum oddity plants are nontoxic for pets.
Common bugs and illnesses
Sempervivum tectorum oddity plants do not go through pests attacks usually. Having said that, regular pests such as aphids and mealybugs could be troublesome for these plants. However, the exposure for excess moisture in the soil medium would make the plants more prone towards the bacterial infections and for fungal infections as well. Besides, these are quite responsive towards over watering, and it would result in root rot.
How to propagate sempervivum tectorum oddity
You can use the Sempervivum tectorum oddity plants seeds, seedlings to propagate them. Further you may separate the branches as well. Further they can spread from the roots underground too. Further you could spot them forming little plantlets around the mother plant. You can simply snip them off and grow them as individual plants in fresh pots. If you wish to use the seeds, you can simply sprinkle them over a gritty soil mix and watch them sprouting. You can start this process during fall and consider repotting them during spring.
Conclusion
To sum up, all you need to do is to fulfill their main growing necessities and as long as you fulfill them, they will grow to their fullest potential and reward you with pleasing plants in return.
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