Plant Passport
Common Houseleek
Sempervivum tectorum
LightBright
Water7-10d
PetCheck
PP SEMP ERVI VUMT
Issued 2026 · Valid while cared for
Common Houseleek
Huislook
Sempervivum tectorum
“I would rather freeze dry outside than sit wet and warm indoors.”
pet safewinter hardysucculentdrought tolerantbalcony friendly
- Light
- Bright light
- Water
- Let dry between waterings
- Pet safety
- Pet safe
- This month
- Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the rosette shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Tight rosettes of pointed succulent leaves that make c.
August care tip
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the rosette shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Tight rosettes of pointed succulent leaves that make c.
Quick Care Summary
- Light
- Bright light
- Water
- Let dry between waterings
- Placement
- Best in an outdoor balcony trough or sunny cold frame with rain drainage; outside in the Netherlands, harden it off and protect it from cold nights.
- Temperature
- -15–35°C
- Humidity
- low
Free printable Plant Passport card
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Plant Passport
Common Houseleek
LightBright
Water7-10d
Botanical stake card
- Format
- 150 x 25mm
- Best for
- Slim plant stakes and gift pots
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View holders →Detailed Care Guide
Watering Method
Water deeply, let the pot drain, then wait until the mix has dried clearly before the next round.
Soil Mix
very gritty mineral mix in a shallow outdoor container
Repotting
Repot or refresh the top layer in spring when roots are active.
Pruning
Prune lightly during active growth and remove damaged leaves promptly.
Pot Preference
Use a pot with drainage; choose weight and size to match the plant's top growth.
Fertilizing
Feed lightly from March to September; skip fertilizer in winter or during cool rest.
Draft Sensitivity
Keep above -15 C and away from sharp cold draughts.
Sources consulted
- powo.science.kew.org
- www.aspca.org
- www.rhs.org.uk
Room Placement
Window Direction
South, south-west or the brightest east window; filter scorching summer glass when needed.
Best Room
an outdoor balcony trough or sunny cold frame with rain drainage
Monthly Care Calendar
Aug (now)
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the rosette shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Tight rosettes of pointed succulent leaves that make c.
Sep
Start reducing fertilizer and stretch watering as nights cool. Move Common Houseleek closer to the brightest indirect position before autumn light drops Cue: Tight rosettes of pointed succulent leaves that make c.
Oct
Stop feeding and prepare for heating season. Keep temperature steady and avoid cold drafts Cue: Tight rosettes of pointed succulent leaves that make c.
Nov
Winter risk check: test soil before watering, inspect tight rosettes of pointed succulent leaves that make clusters of offsets, and keep the pot draining freely while growth slows Cue: Tight rosettes of pointed succulent leaves that make c.
Watering Schedule
- Summer
- Every 8 days
- Winter
- Every 18 days
Feel well into the mix; water only when it has dried clearly.
Common Problems
Propagation
stem cuttings in soileasyspring
Propagate during active growth, keep the material warm and lightly moist, and wait for new growth before potting on.
Pests & Diseases
Spider mites
Early signs
Fine speckling, sticky residue or webbing on stressed new growth.
Treatment
Rinse or wipe leaves, isolate the plant and repeat treatment weekly until clear.
Mealybugs
Early signs
Cottony clusters, scale-like bumps or sour smell near the crown and leaf joints.
Treatment
Remove visible pests, improve airflow and check roots if the problem returns.
Buying Tips
Choose Common Houseleek with clean growth, firm stems and no pests in the leaf joints.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fun Facts
The name Sempervivum means always living, a nod to rosettes surviving heat, cold and poor soil.
Origin & Natural Habitat
Native to mountains of southern Europe, where rosettes cling to dry rocky sites and roofs.
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