Sempervivum marmoreum 'Brunneifolium'

Sempervivums, or houseleeks, are hardy, succulent, alpine plants often used in patio container displays. Sometimes called hen-and-chicks, they consist of a main rosette (hen) around which baby rosettes (chicks) develop as plants mature. In summer tall, conical spikes of greenish pink flowers emerge from the centre of older rosettes.

Sempervivum marmoreum 'Brunneifolium' is a particularly striking cultivar, bearing large rosettes of triangular-shaped, silvery bronze leaves. It's perfect for growing in containers, ideally with added horticultural grit to aid drainage.

Sempervivums don't need feeding, but do benefit from being repotted each year into compost containing slow-release fertiliser. Propagate new plants of Sempervivum marmoreum 'Brunneifolium' by gently teasing out the chicks and transplanting them to a new location.