Sempervivum calcareum, Houseleek, is native to the southwest Alps spanning Italy and France where it grows at elevations of 500-1600 metres above sea level. It is a tough plant in a genus of tough plants, capable of withstanding severe frosts and snow during the winter and extremes of heat during the summer. It will survive for long periods of time without water and in cultivation, the busy gardener will probably never need to water it leaving such maintenance to the the whims of the weather - although it will certainly appreciate a drink during hot summer days and show its appreciation by lusher growth.

Quickly forming a clump of tight rosettes with greyish-green foliage tipped with maroon, Sempervivum calcareum is a gem of a species in an ocean of mediocre cultivars.

Perfect in a terracotta bowl, perched on your green roof, in a gravel garden or in the nooks of a stone wall.