This genus of about 10 species of perennials is mainly European, through it also occurs westwards to Asia, favouring alpine meadows or woodlands. Its most distinguishing feature is its sprays of flowers, which appear above the clump-forming hand-shaped foliage. The small pastel-toned flowers are borne on neat dome-shaped flowerheads and are surrounded by a ring of papery bracts, which are often more showy than the true flowers inside. This genus is variously referred to as masterwort or pin-cushion flower. The name Astrantia probably comes from the Latin aster, meaning star, referring to the star-shaped flowerheads. These plants are best grown in informal garden situations. They also make excellent dried flowers.
CULTIVATION
Apart from an intolerance of prolonged dry conditions. Astrantia plants grow freely in any cool-temperate garden with moderately fertile free-draining soil. The foliage may be more lush in the shade, which is of particular consideration with the variegated cultivars, but they usually flower best with at least half-sun. Propagate by division when dormant or from seed, which needs stratification.
Top Tip
Astrantia plants can be grown in cottage gardens, woodland gardens, or herbaceous borders. They make great cut flowers because of their straight wiry stems.
CULTIVATION
Apart from an intolerance of prolonged dry conditions. Astrantia plants grow freely in any cool-temperate garden with moderately fertile free-draining soil. The foliage may be more lush in the shade, which is of particular consideration with the variegated cultivars, but they usually flower best with at least half-sun. Propagate by division when dormant or from seed, which needs stratification.
Top Tip
Astrantia plants can be grown in cottage gardens, woodland gardens, or herbaceous borders. They make great cut flowers because of their straight wiry stems.
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