The Sempervivum is a genus that consists of around 40 species of flowering plants. They are also known as "liveforever," and their name comes from the Latin "semper" (always) and "vivus" (living). Even in the winter this plant will retain its flowers and is very resistant to weather and difficult growing conditions. In the frozen prairies here in Alberta, it's not surprising to see such a large cluster of them, as the long months of snow cover really have little effect on these plants.
Historically they have been used for their known health benefits. A common use is helping stop bad cases of diarrhea by drinking its juices or eating the leaves. The juice can also be applied to skin for many of the same uses as aloe vera for burns, insect bites, or warts. The almost alien plants can be seen growing in alleyways around my city of Calgary and also are often spotted in the foothills and parks in the area.
