Sempervivum 'Black'

When I was growing up in Ohio , my two favorite plants were pansies and hen-and-chicks. Although my affection for Sempervivum developed early in life, I didn’t have anything as cool as Emerald Coast Growers’ ‘Black’ in my backyard.

‘Black’ puts a twist on traditional selections. The tips of its long, fleshy, green leaves appear to be dipped in purple dye. The contrast is elegant.

Plants are hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 3-9.

Emerald Coast recommends transplanting from a 50-cell liner into a 3 1/2- to 6-inch container. Finish time for a 3 1/2-inch pot with one plug or a 6-inch pot with two plugs is eight to 12 weeks. Under short days, add two weeks.

The growing medium should be well-draining with a pH of 5.5-6.5. Don’t let the foliage stay wet and avoid saturation at the crown.

Emerald Coast recommends 50-percent shading if temperatures are above 85°. Production temperatures are 55°-65° at night and 75° during the day.

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For more: Emerald Coast Growers, (877) 804-7277; www.ecgrowers.com.

- Jyme Mariani