Gray green succulent foliage forms a clump 12 to 18 inches tall and up to 3 feet wide. Brilliant magenta flowers, showy from quite a distance, are carried on 1 to 2 foot stems above the foliage. Each inflorescence is reblooming, so resist the urge to deadhead until completely spent.
Very easy to grow, Calandrinia is said to prefer full sun, but in our area a little afternoon shade can prevent sunburned leaves in the hottest part of summer. It needs a lighter soil with good drainage and very little water once established.
Overwatering will definitely kill this one. A closely related species, Calandrinia grandiflora, is somewhat larger than spectabilis and distinguished by its narrower more elliptical leaves. Both are great, just be aware when buying. More cold hardy than many succulents, Calandrinia can tolerate temperatures down to 20 degrees without damage.
As older leaves die off, plants can become a little leggy. If so, cut back in late winter. It may be best to replace plants periodically, and fortunately propagation from cuttings is easy. Calandrinia is an excellent choice for a xeriscape or rock garden and also good in containers. Basically, this is one you can plant and forget (almost).