Troubleshooting
Rolling Houseleek problems — and how to fix them
Rolling Houseleek (Jovibarba globifera) is generally low-drama, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Excessive spreading / offset loss in containers
The freely rolling globi disperse unpredictably and can invade adjacent pots or plantings. In troughs, use a physical barrier between sections or collect and re-plant globi intentionally. This is a feature of the plant's biology rather than a disease.
Crown rot after winter wet
Despite excellent cold hardiness, persistently waterlogged soil in winter causes root and crown rot. Always grow in sharply drained compost; raise containers on pot feet and add a top-dressing of grit to divert water away from the rosette collar.
Prevent rolling houseleek problems before they start
Most rolling houseleek issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Rolling Houseleek problems — FAQ
Why is my rolling houseleek excessive spreading / offset loss in containers?
The freely rolling globi disperse unpredictably and can invade adjacent pots or plantings. In troughs, use a physical barrier between sections or collect and re-plant globi intentionally. This is a feature of the plant's biology rather than a disease.
Why is my rolling houseleek crown rot after winter wet?
Despite excellent cold hardiness, persistently waterlogged soil in winter causes root and crown rot. Always grow in sharply drained compost; raise containers on pot feet and add a top-dressing of grit to divert water away from the rosette collar.