Sempervivum ‘Weirdo’

Sempervivum ‘Weirdo’ is an unusual houseleek cultivar producing compact rosettes of long, irregularly arranged leaves. Its olive-green foliage develops deep red to burgundy colouring, particularly under strong light and cooler conditions.

Introduced by American breeder Kevin C. Vaughn in 1975, ‘Weirdo’ is noted for producing its offsets tightly against the base of the main rosette. This eventually creates a compact, crowded clump rather than a widely spreading mat.

Care

• Light: Grow outdoors in full sun to light afternoon shade. Strong light encourages compact growth and deeper burgundy colouring.
• Water: Water thoroughly, then allow the potting mix to dry before watering again. Reduce watering during cool or wet weather.
• Temperature: Frost hardy once established. Protect from prolonged waterlogging rather than ordinary winter cold.
• Media: Use a coarse, sharply draining succulent mix. It is also suitable for rock gardens and other areas with lean, well-drained soil.
• Feeding: Feed sparingly during active growth. Rich soil and excessive fertiliser can produce soft, open growth.

Key Characteristics

• Distinctive American cultivar introduced in 1975
• Compact rosettes growing to approximately 5 cm across
• Long, irregularly arranged, pointed leaves
• Olive-green foliage with red to deep burgundy seasonal colouring
• Offsets develop closely around the base of the parent rosette
• Slow-growing, clumping habit
• Suitable for outdoor pots, rockeries, walls and alpine-style gardens
• Very tolerant of frost and cold conditions

Please note: Foliage colour changes naturally with the season, temperature and light levels. Plants may be greener during active growth or when grown under lower light.