Cobweb houseleek (bare rooted)

Cobweb Houseleek (Bare Root): A Hardy Succulent with a Unique Webbed Charm

The Cobweb Houseleek (Sempervivum arachnoideum) is a fascinating succulent plant that makes a unique addition to any garden. The Cobweb name comes from its rosette-shaped leaves covered in fine, white webbing, resembling a spider’s web. The hardy nature makes it a perfect addition to your rock gardens, container displays, and alpine landscapes.

• Grows Low and Spreads: Reaches about 3-5 inches tall and forms clusters over time.
• Blooms in Summer: Produces star-shaped pink or red flowers before the main rosette dies (monocarpic cycle).

• Unique Webbed Look: The delicate “cobweb” filaments and the rosette-shaped leaves make it stand out in any collection.
• Thrives in Harsh Conditions: Extremely drought-tolerant and survives poor soil.
• Cold-Hardy & Resilient: Cobweb Houseleek can withstand freezing temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor gardens.
• Low Water Requirement: As it stores moisture in its leaves, it requires minimal watering and can go on days without watering. The real struggle is to not over-water it.
• Natural Pest Repellent: The plant’s thick leaves deter common pests.
• Blooming: While Cobweb Houseleek does bloom, it is monocarpic. This means that the other rosette dies after flowering and the new offsets replace it.

Cobweb Houseleek Care

• Sunlight Needs: Prefers full sun to partial shade. At least 5-6 hours of direct sunlight ensures strong growth and vibrant webbing.
• Watering Routine: Water sparingly, about every 10-14 days, letting the soil dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering in winter.
• Soil & Drainage: Requires gritty, well-draining soil. A mix of cactus soil, perlite, and coarse sand prevents root rot.
• Temperature & Hardiness: Can tolerate -20°C to 30°C, making it ideal for both hot and cold climates. Protect from excessive rain to prevent rot.
• Propagation: You can propagate the Cobweb Houseleek by either separating small rosettes from the mother plant and replanting them in dry soil or by growing them from seeds. However, it is a slower process compared to the offset.

Extra Care Tips:

• Avoid high humidity; too much moisture can cause rot.
• Remove dead rosettes after flowering to encourage new growth.
• If growing indoors, place it in a well-ventilated area to prevent fungal issues.

FAQs

• Why does my Cobweb Houseleek lose its webbing?
• Insufficient sunlight can reduce webbing. Place it in brighter light to enhance its appearance.
• Is Cobweb Houseleek cold-hardy?
• Yes! It can survive freezing temperatures down to -20°C.
• Why are my succulent plants turning mushy?
• Over-watering or poor drainage can lead to root rot. Let the soil dry out completely before watering again.
• What pests should I watch out for in my succulent plant?
• Aphids and spider mites can sometimes infest the plant. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap if needed.