Overview:
Scientific Name: Astrantia major
Common Names: Great masterwort, greater masterwort
Family: Apiaceae (Carrot family)
Origin: Native to Central, Eastern, and Southern Europe, including parts of the Caucasus
Description:
Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
Height: Typically grows to about 30-90 cm (12-35 inches) tall
Leaves: Palmately lobed, dark green, with toothed edges. Leaves are basal, forming a rosette.
Flowers: Small, star-like flowers clustered in dense umbels surrounded by petal-like bracts. The flowers can be white, pink, or red.
Bloom Time: Blooms from late spring to mid-summer (May to July).
Habitat and Cultivation:
Preferred Soil: Moist, well-drained soil with a high organic matter content.
Sunlight: Thrives in partial shade to full sun, though partial shade is preferred in hotter climates.
Watering: Requires regular watering, especially in dry periods. Soil should remain consistently moist.
Hardiness Zones: USDA zones 4-7.
Propagation: Propagated by division in spring or autumn, or by seed. Seeds can take a few months to germinate.
Uses and Benefits:
Garden Use: Popular ornamental plant for garden borders, woodland gardens, and cottage gardens due to its unique flower structure and attractive foliage.
Pollinators: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Cut Flowers: Flowers are long-lasting and make excellent cut flowers for floral arrangements.
Traditional Medicine: Historically used in folk medicine for its supposed diuretic and digestive properties, though such uses are not widely practiced today.
Maintenance:
Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage further blooming and maintain plant appearance.
Pests and Diseases: Generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by powdery mildew or aphids.
Winter Care: In colder climates, apply mulch to protect the roots from freezing temperatures.
Interesting Facts:
Etymology: The genus name "Astrantia" is derived from the Latin word "aster," meaning "star," referring to the star-like appearance of the flower heads.
Cultural Significance: In some cultures, Astrantia major has been used symbolically to represent strength and protection.
Varieties: There are several cultivars with different flower colors and forms, such as 'Ruby Wedding' (deep red flowers) and 'Roma' (soft pink flowers).
Great masterwort is valued for its ornamental beauty and adaptability, making it a cherished addition to many gardens.
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