It's right there in its name, Sempervivum, or always living, and that's the beauty of Hens and Chicks. These tough succulents sail through Pacific NW winters as long as they are planted in well-draining soil and get ample sun the rest of the year. 'Sugar Shimmer' is a standout with silvery green rosettes from spring into the fall, then takes on reddish tones as the temperatures drop. Miniscule hairs cover the leaves like a dusting of sugar, making them even more intriguing. Pair with other succulents as a small-area ground cover or include in container planters. 'Sugar Shimmer' will send out chicks that can be planted elsewhere or allowed to grow where they emerge. Sempervivums are monocarpic, meaning that once the hens flower, they will die, but the chicks will live on to become hens themselves.