CHAPTER XXIX 



Sempervivum (Houseleek) 



PERHAPS the best-known member of this family 

 (natural order Crassulaceae) is the common Houseleek 

 (S. tectorum), which makes such an interesting picture 

 on old thatched roofs and walls in this country. The 



plants are capable of existence 

 under what might be considered 

 the reverse of favourable con- 

 ditions, while many kinds are 

 attractive at all seasons. In winter 

 the dense rosettes of succulent 

 leaves, varying in colour with the 

 different kinds, from the red-purple 

 of S. triste, to the white cobwebby 

 S. arachnoideum, are very orna- 

 mental ; while in the spring and 

 summer an additional attraction are 

 the yellow and rose-coloured flowers 

 of many shades. The Houseleeks 

 may be used in many ways, and 

 are valuable for furnishing the bare 



stones and tops of old walls. Small 

 established in lumps of 



185 



Houseleek ( Semper vivum) 

 in bloom. 



