Botanical Name: Sempervivum ‘Commander Hay’

Common Name: Hens & Chicks

Hardiness Zone: Perennial in USDA Zones 3–8

Size: 3–5" Tall × 6–8" Wide (Individual Rosettes); Spreads by Offsets

Growth Habit: Low-Growing, Rosette-Forming, Clumping

Sunlight: Full Sun to Light Shade

Soil: Very Well-Drained Soil; Tolerates Poor, Sandy, or Rocky Soils

Water Needs: Low; Drought Tolerant

Bloom Season: Summer (Mature Rosettes Only)

Fertilizer: Not Required

Features: Large Rosettes, Blue-Green to Gray Foliage, Red Tips in Sun & Cold, Extremely Cold Hardy

Uses: Rock Gardens, Ground Cover, Containers, Crevice Gardens, Alpine Gardens

Patent: ❌ Not Patented

Propagation: ✔ Propagation Allowed

More About Sempervivum ‘Commander Hay’

Sempervivum ‘Commander Hay’ is one of the larger and more commanding hens-and-chicks varieties, known for its bold rosettes and reliable performance. The foliage is typically blue-green to gray, but when grown in full sun or exposed to cooler temperatures, the tips develop rich red and burgundy tones. That color shift gives the plant strong seasonal interest without any extra care.

Like all Sempervivums, this variety grows in tight rosettes and spreads by producing offsets, or “chicks,” around the mother plant. Those offsets slowly fill in space, creating a dense, low-growing mat over time. The plant stays neat and contained, making it ideal for small spaces, containers, and rock gardens.

In summer, mature rosettes may send up a tall flower stalk. After blooming, that rosette will die back, but the surrounding offsets continue growing, keeping the planting intact. This natural cycle is part of what makes Sempervivum such a dependable, long-term plant.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

At Garden Delivery, ‘Commander Hay’ has been one of the most consistent Sempervivums in cold and exposed conditions. In our trials, it handled winter freezes, summer heat, and poor soil without issue. The rosettes stayed firm and attractive year-round, even with minimal attention.

We also like how well it holds color. Compared to smaller or greener Sempervivums, ‘Commander Hay’ develops stronger red tones with sun and temperature shifts. For gardeners who want a hardy succulent that actually looks better with stress, this one delivers.

Commander Hay vs. Other Hens & Chicks

‘Commander Hay’ brings size and structure to the group. Compared to Kalinda, its rosettes are larger and more commanding, giving it more visual weight in the garden. While SUPERSEMPS® Onyx delivers deeper, darker tones, ‘Commander Hay’ relies on form and subtle color shifts rather than intensity. The broad rosettes stay firm and open, creating a strong, architectural presence even in lean, rocky soil. Against Cobweb, it feels sturdier and less ornamental, focusing more on durability than novelty. This is a Sempervivum that holds its own in exposed conditions. I like ‘Commander Hay’ when I need a plant that anchors a rock garden rather than decorates it.