About this plant
Astrantia
Masterworts (Astrantia) are clump-forming perennials from the mountain meadows and woodland edges of Europe, related to carrot and parsley. Their small domed flower heads sit in a ring of papery bracts, like tiny stars, and keep appearing over a long period in summer. Gardeners value them for their natural charm and their long life in the border.
Astrantia major
Great masterwort is the species behind almost all garden masterworts. It forms a leafy clump of deeply lobed, hand-shaped leaves, above which wiry, branched stems carry flower heads in white, pink or deep red from June to August, sometimes into September.
Location and soil
Grows best in partial shade in a humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil. In a cool, damp position it can take more sun; avoid hot midday sun on dry ground. It is very hardy and withstands severe frost without trouble.
Pruning and care
Cut back the first flush of flowers to extend flowering into late summer, or leave a few heads if you want seedlings. Keep the soil moist in dry summers. The leaves die down in autumn; cut the clump to the base in October or in early spring (March). Divide older clumps in spring or autumn.
Use in the garden
A dependable filler for mixed and perennial borders, in groups at the foot of shrubs and roses or in front of a dark hedge. It combines well with pastel perennials and grasses, and is an excellent cut flower, fresh or dried.
Characteristics
Botanical
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Astrantia |
| Species | major |
| Cultivar | 'Snow Star' |
Flowering
| Flowering period | june, july, august |
| Colour (flower) | white |
Foliage
| Evergreen | no |
| Colour (foliage) | green |
Growth habit
| Height | 30 cm |
Location
| Winter hardiness | -30 °C |
| Location | sun, half shade |