Troubleshooting
Pitton's Houseleek problems — and how to fix them
Pitton's Houseleek (Sempervivum pittonii) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Winter wet rot
Being native to well-drained limestone scree, this species is especially vulnerable to fungal rot if kept wet over winter. Move containers under cover or provide rain-shadow protection outdoors.
Loss of compact form
Rosettes become lax and open in low-light conditions. Ensure maximum available light, particularly in the shorter days of autumn and winter.
Slugs and snails (outdoors)
Young rosettes can be eaten by slugs at night in damp conditions. Use copper tape around containers or apply an organic iron-phosphate slug control.
Prevent pitton's houseleek problems before they start
Most pitton's houseleek issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for pitton's houseleek in general rather than its problems? Read the full pitton's houseleek care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Pitton's Houseleek problems — FAQ
Why is my pitton's houseleek winter wet rot?
Being native to well-drained limestone scree, this species is especially vulnerable to fungal rot if kept wet over winter. Move containers under cover or provide rain-shadow protection outdoors.
Why is my pitton's houseleek loss of compact form?
Rosettes become lax and open in low-light conditions. Ensure maximum available light, particularly in the shorter days of autumn and winter.
Why is my pitton's houseleek slugs and snails (outdoors)?
Young rosettes can be eaten by slugs at night in damp conditions. Use copper tape around containers or apply an organic iron-phosphate slug control.