Astrantia is a hardy herbaceous clump forming perennial suited to sun and shade.
It is a good subject for that ‘wild garden’ looks in a partially shaded area where the soil remains quite moist in summer.
The clusters of purple-red or white flowers that appear in July grow to about 300-500mm (12”-18”) high with a similar spread.
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The flowers are also useful in a cut flower arrangement.
In an exposed position the plants may need supporting with twiggy sticks.
Cultivation;
Week 13; Prick out the seedlings sown the previous autumn into 70mm (3”) pots and grow on in a coldframe until planting out time.
Week 35; Sow seeds in seed compost and place in a cold frame to germinate.
Week 35-40; Cut down the stems now if not done after flowering.
Now is also a suitable time to divide and replant established plants.
Week 40; Plant out potted seedlings between now and March in any ordinary garden soil at 200-300mm (8”-12”) centers.
