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Key characteristics

Family: Crassulaceae
Height: 4 to 6 inches
Width: 4 to 6 inches
Flower color: Pink, red, or white
Foliage color: Emerald green, with red or purple tips
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Low; drought-tolerant once established
Maintenance: Low
Growing zone: USDA Zones 3 to 8
Wildlife: Attracts bees and butterflies; deer-resistant

Groundcovers

Sempervivum tectorum ‘Emerald Express’

Emerald Express Hens and Chicks

Sempervivum tectorum 'Emerald Express', also known as Hens and Chicks, is a charming succulent perennial that forms rosettes of fleshy, pointed leaves. The foliage is a striking emerald green, often tinged with red or purple at the tips, especially during cooler weather or in bright sunlight. Drought-tolerant and thriving in well-draining soil, 'Emerald Express' is ideal for rock gardens, containers, or dry, sunny garden areas.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Low; drought-tolerant once established

Bloom time

Late spring to early summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Rock Gardens
Pathways & Walkways
Slopes & Banks
Pollinator Gardens

Companion plants

Arabis · Spireas · Lavender · Blanket flowers · Blue fescue · Stonecrops

Design tip

Arrange clusters of rosettes in repeating groups to create a natural rhythm across rocky landscapes and gravel gardens. Accentuate their architectural form with upright bloom spikes, airy grasses, and contrasting groundcovers for a planting that remains visually engaging year-round.