Pot Size:
Accepted Scientific Name: Sempervivum Colorockz® ‘Blushing Garnet’
Origin and Habitat:
The Colorockz® series of Sempervivum are nursery-bred cultivars derived from species native to the mountainous regions of Europe, particularly the Alps, Carpathians, and Pyrenees. In their natural habitat, Sempervivum grow on rocky slopes, cliff faces, and alpine meadows, thriving in thin, mineral-rich soils with excellent drainage. These environments are characterized by cool summers, cold winters, and wide variations in moisture availability, which has made the genus remarkably resilient to temperature extremes and drought. The cultivar ‘Blushing Garnet’ has been selected for its ornamental value and garden performance, retaining the hardy nature of its wild ancestors while enhancing its decorative coloration.
Description:
Sempervivum Colorockz® ‘Blushing Garnet’ is a hardy, evergreen succulent that forms compact rosettes measuring 3 to 5 inches across. The foliage is thick, fleshy, and symmetrically arranged, shifting from deep green to rich garnet-red as seasons change, with the most vibrant blush tones appearing in cooler temperatures. Over time, the plant produces offsets, creating dense mats that spread to 12 inches or more. Mature rosettes may send up flower stalks up to 8 inches tall, bearing clusters of star-shaped, pinkish-purple flowers. After flowering, the rosette naturally dies back, leaving offsets to continue the clump’s growth.
Cultivation:
Zone: Hardy in USDA Zones 4–9.
Temperature: Tolerates a wide range, from –30°C in winter to 30°C in summer if dry.
Growth Rate: Moderate, steadily forming colonies of offsets each season.
Soil: Requires very well-draining soil with pumice added for aeration and to prevent rot.
Watering: Water moderately during the growing season, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Keep drier in winter.
Fertilizing: Apply a diluted, balanced fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during the active growing season for best color and growth.
Light: Full sun is ideal to develop its strongest red and garnet tones; tolerates partial sun but with greener foliage.
Pests and Diseases: Generally hardy and resistant but may occasionally be affected by aphids, vine weevils, or mealybugs. Root rot may occur if soil remains too wet.
Propagation:
Easily propagated by offsets. Small rosettes can be detached from the parent plant and replanted in well-draining soil.
