Five Varieties of Astrantias to Grow: A Tapestry of Delicate Beauty
Step into the enchanting world of Astrantias, where delicate blooms and intricate patterns come together to create a tapestry of garden elegance. These captivating perennials, also known as Masterworts, add a touch of refinement to any landscape. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore five popular varieties of Astrantias that promise to grace your garden with their unique charm. From their distinct characteristics to planting and care tips, you’ll uncover the secrets of growing Astrantias and creating a breathtaking floral display.
Astrantia major ‘Ruby Wedding’
With its deep ruby-red blooms resembling miniature pincushions, Astrantia major ‘Ruby Wedding’ is a true gem in the garden. This variety’s lush green foliage forms a stunning backdrop for the intricate flowers. Plant ‘Ruby Wedding’ in partial shade and enjoy its long-lasting blooms from late spring to mid-summer.
Astrantia major ‘Star of Billion’
Astrantia major ‘Star of Billion’ lives up to its name with star-shaped, pale pink flowers that add a soft and romantic touch to any setting. This variety thrives in moist soil and partial shade, making it a graceful addition to shaded borders or woodland gardens.
Astrantia major ‘Shaggy’
Unconventional and charming, Astrantia major ‘Shaggy’ boasts unique, shaggy-looking blooms that add whimsy to your garden. Its pale pink flowers are surrounded by delicate bracts, creating an exquisite contrast. Plant ‘Shaggy’ in well-draining soil and watch its playful beauty unfold.
Astrantia major ‘Roma’
Astrantia major ‘Roma’ showcases classic beauty with its blush-pink blooms and intricate, lace-like bracts. This variety is a pollinator favorite and brings a touch of elegance to cottage-style gardens. Choose a spot with morning sun and well-draining soil for ‘Roma’ to flourish.
Astrantia major ‘Buckland’
Astrantia major ‘Buckland’ stands out with its rich, deep red blooms that lend a bold statement to borders and floral arrangements. Its elegant flowers are complemented by finely cut foliage. Plant ‘Buckland’ in moist soil and enjoy its striking presence from summer to early fall.
Planting and Care Tips
- Choose a well-draining location with partial shade for Astrantias.
- Prepare the soil with organic matter to ensure healthy growth.
- Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist.
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to support robust growth and blooms.
Complimentary Plants
Astrantia make fantastic additions to a border or large pot, with the variety of blooms and colours they come in you can mix and match with plenty of other flowers. Here’s an example we’ve tried where we mixed Astrantia in a border with Anchusa and Acquilgia vulgaris amongst other flowers to create a cottage garden border with a difference.
Frequently Asked Questions about Growing Astrantias
Q: Can I grow Astrantias in containers?
A: While Astrantias are more commonly planted in garden beds, certain compact varieties can thrive in containers with proper care and attention to moisture levels.
Q: Are Astrantias attractive to pollinators?
A: Yes, Astrantias are pollinator magnets. Their intricate blooms and nectar-rich flowers attract a variety of beneficial insects, including bees and butterflies.
Q: When is the best time to divide Astrantias?
A: The best time to divide Astrantias is in early spring or early autumn, when the weather is cooler and the plants are not actively growing.
Conclusion
Dive into the world of Astrantias and let their delicate beauty weave a tapestry of elegance in your garden. With a variety of captivating options, each Astrantia brings its own unique charm to your landscape. By following our comprehensive guide, you’ll embrace the art of growing these enchanting blooms and create a breathtaking garden display that captivates the senses. Elevate your gardening experience with the timeless allure of Astrantias and cultivate a garden that’s a masterpiece of nature’s finest creations. Happy gardening and enjoy the beauty of Astrantias in full bloom!
