Astrantia major 'Hadspen Blood' (Astrantia)

An excellent perennial for a sun and shade border, which thrives in moist conditions.  This variety is a dark, rose red with maroon stems.

History

Astrantia comes from the greek word 'Aster' meaning star and 'major' refers to greater. Astrantias have been grown in Britain since the 16th Century.

Planting

Can be planted anytime, apart from the height of summer (May to July). Divided plants may take a little while to settle when re-planted as the roots don't like being disturbed. Water well before planting.  Dig a hole and loosen the surrounding soil with a fork, especially at the base incorporating plenty of organic material. Place the plant in the hole so that the compost is at the same level as the surrounding soil. Fill in around the plant with loose soil and firm in the roots to secure the plant.  Water again after planting.

Propagation

Division (Divide September to November). Self seeds.

Cultivation

Grows best in a reasonably fertile, moisture retentive soil in sun or partial shade. Although it will be okay in a shady position it will not achieve its full colour potential without some sun. It will tolerate a drier soil as long as a thick layer of mulch is applied around the base in spring to help retain what moisture there is.  Water well during dry spells.

Aftercare

Application of a thick layer of mulch or gardern manure in spring will keep the soil fertile and help retain moisture. Cutting back flower stems as they start to fade will encourage fresh foliage and further flowering. Water well in dry weather.

Pests

Slugs and Snails

Diseases

Trouble free.

Other information

Excellent plant for both cut and dried flowers. It is also attractive to beetles and insects.

Height/Spread

A hardy perennial with an upright branching habit.  It has slender green stems which are tinged with maroon and mid-green, palm-shaped, deeply lobed leaves. It flowers in spring/early summer and again in late summer/autumn if dead headed.  The flowers are shallow cups of pointed bracts which hold a cluster of tiny pink 5 petalled carmine-red flowers.

Annual care

April

Lift and divide larger more mature clumps for propagation.  Apply a good layer of mulch or garden manure.

June

Cut back faded flowers to encourage further flowering.

October

Cut back to ground level after the plant has finished flowering.