I've actually seen it recommended to cut off the central mother plant after a while, to encourage this kind of growth. I'll have to put up a pic of the original one I got. It's still with me.I'd like to add that the original mother plants I got from Jb died back sometime this past fall...then sent up all these!
DP... I agree with Paps. That's a hardy plant there, and if there's a way to stay alive, it'll find it. I'd say keep it well watered and wait a while before you give up on it.