There was a package in our mailbox today and it was the best kind of surprise. When I saw the return address, I guessed (hoped) what might be inside… the package was from a long time reader who loves plants, gardening… and especially sempervivums… as much as I do. She has generously sent me hens and chicks several times before.
![](http://www.choosingvoluntarysimplicity.com/img/sempervivum-nubbin-c-1.jpg)
![](http://www.choosingvoluntarysimplicity.com/img/sempervivum-nubbin-c-2.jpg)
I followed the instructions to read the note first… this was, the note said, a “deliberately delayed” birthday gift.
![](http://www.choosingvoluntarysimplicity.com/img/sempervivum-nubbin-c-3.jpg)
![](http://www.choosingvoluntarysimplicity.com/img/sempervivum-nubbin-c-4.jpg)
Under the note there were fourteen small white paper bags folded over and taped at the top.
![](http://www.choosingvoluntarysimplicity.com/img/sempervivum-nubbin-c-5.jpg)
![](http://www.choosingvoluntarysimplicity.com/img/sempervivum-nubbin-c-6.jpg)
Inside each bag was a beautiful quarter-size sempervivum, the size we both call “nubbins.”
![](http://www.choosingvoluntarysimplicity.com/img/sempervivum-nubbin-c-7.jpg)
![](http://www.choosingvoluntarysimplicity.com/img/sempervivum-nubbin-c-8.jpg)
Some were bareroot and some had just been removed from the mother plant, and ALL were in perfect condition even after their very long travel time.
![](http://www.choosingvoluntarysimplicity.com/img/sempervivum-nubbin-c-9.jpg)
![](http://www.choosingvoluntarysimplicity.com/img/sempervivum-nubbin-c-10.jpg)
Although I have a LOT of sempervivums, I am almost positive that I don’t have any that look exactly like any of these fourteen.
![](http://www.choosingvoluntarysimplicity.com/img/sempervivum-nubbin-c-11.jpg)
![](http://www.choosingvoluntarysimplicity.com/img/sempervivum-nubbin-c-12.jpg)
Here they are, all settled in their new home.
![](http://www.choosingvoluntarysimplicity.com/img/sempervivum-nubbin-c-13.jpg)
![](http://www.choosingvoluntarysimplicity.com/img/sempervivum-nubbin-c-15.jpg)
Aren’t they beautiful?
Phyll
Yes they are lovely. I especially like the fuzzy hairy ones. I had no idea that sempervivums had such variety until I found your site.
NXt
You lucky lady!!!!! All I got for mail today was bills. (grin)
EdieM
I love that word ‘nubbins’. What a perfect description for the round and fat little babies. I have a small collection of sempervivums (we call them houseleeks) but nothing like what I see here. Your photographs are awesome and I love your blog.