Is there any likely cause for the drift toward red?

Sure. Red coloration can be a sign of stress, but not necessarily distress. How much color change depends the species or cultivar, the season, the temperature, water availability, and the amount of sunlight. Many varieties can turn very red, and were selected for that genetic trait. As long as your plants 'continue to grow nicely and to proliferate impressively', there is nothing to worry about.

The first three photographs show the same species, but in different containers, and seasons. The last is a clump of Semperivum 'Oddity'.

Red is good!

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Brad

Thanks, Brad. You wrote: "As long as your plants 'continue to grow nicely and to proliferate impressively', there is nothing to worry about. The first three photographs show the same species, but in different containers, and seasons. The last is a clump of Semperivum 'Oddity'. Red is good!"

I agree that "red is good" - as part of the mix. We bought some varieties, though, with the understanding that they were going provide a bit of green as part of that mix. Hence our frustration.

You say there is a link between season and the degree of red or green in the plants. May I ask what that correspondence is? (i.e., is it autumn/winter brings out the red, ... or... ?)

And when you mention the influence of the "container", are you refering to the type of soil in the container? (pH, or specific nutrients?)

I'm still interested in learning the answer to two wo questions prompted by Brad's response - the two questions being: What is the trigger that turns them red? (i.e., is it autumn/winter brings out the red, ... or... ?) And when Brad mentions the influence of the "container", is the reference to the type of soil in the container? (pH, or specific nutrients?)

But in thinking about it, I guess the more fundamental question is: Will ALL types of Hens & Chicks go red at some period during the year, or do some tend to stay green?

Mine ar red and flowering!