A pretty perennial producing dainty, white pincushion flowers on slender stems all summer, above tufts of delicately palmate cut leaves. Height and Spread 40cm. Full sun/partial shade. Prefers moist soil. Hardy.
Astrantia minor is a charming perennial producing delicate white pincushion flowers above finely cut palmate leaves. Reaching 40cm in height and spread, it thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers moist, fertile, well-drained soil. Its long summer flowering and compact habit make it ideal for borders, cottage gardens, and containers.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The ideal time to plant Astrantia minor is in spring when the soil begins to warm. This gives the roots time to establish before the flowering season, promoting strong, healthy growth.
Autumn: Alternatively, plant in early autumn. This allows the plant to settle in before winter, encouraging vigorous growth and earlier blooms the following year.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Astrantia grows best in full sun to partial shade. Select a spot that receives at least 4–6 hours of sunlight daily for optimum flower production.
Soil: Astrantia minor prefers fertile, moist, and well-drained soil. Avoid heavy, waterlogged conditions which can damage roots. Enrich soil with compost or organic matter to improve structure and drainage.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball to give Astrantia minor ample space to establish.
Soil Preparation: Mix compost into the soil to improve fertility and drainage. This encourages strong growth and a prolonged flowering season.
Planting: Position Astrantia minor in the prepared hole with the crown level with surrounding soil. Backfill gently and firm the soil to remove air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water your Astrantia thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and support root establishment.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Once established, Astrantia enjoys consistent moisture. Water during dry spells to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Dormant Season: Reduce watering in winter; only irrigate if the soil becomes excessively dry.
Feeding
Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to encourage new growth and flower bud formation.
Mid-Summer: A light mid-summer feed can prolong flowering and maintain plant vigour.
Pruning
Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers from Astrantia minor to encourage continued blooming and keep the plant tidy.
Autumn Pruning: After flowering ends, cut back foliage to ground level to prepare Astrantia minor for winter dormancy and support healthy growth next season.
Mulching
Spring: Apply organic mulch such as bark or compost around the base of your Astrantia to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Winter: Mulch provides protection to roots during colder months, preventing frost heaving and supporting plant survival.
Supporting the Plant
Astrantia minor naturally has a compact habit and sturdy stems, so staking is usually unnecessary. In exposed, windy locations, consider gentle support to prevent damage.
Final Tips
Astrantia minor is a low-maintenance perennial that adds elegant charm to any garden. By planting it in fertile, moist, well-drained soil and providing consistent care, this Astrantia will reward you with delicate summer flowers and attractive foliage year after year. Ideal for borders, cottage gardens, and containers, it attracts pollinators and enhances your outdoor space with subtle beauty.
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