Masterwort

Astrantia major Lars

• Position: full sun to part shade
• Soil: fertile, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: May to October
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Pinky-red, pincushion-like flowers with a ruff of reddish bracts appear from June to Augusts above pretty, deeply lobed, dark green leaves. This astrantia spreads gently, and is perfect for naturalising in areas of moist, dappled shade. It works equally well in a woodland edge or in a mixed border. It will grow happily in sun, too,  as long as the soil is not allowed to dry out.
  
  

  Astrantias have been cultivated in Britain since the 16th century and have numerous common names, such as melancholy gentleman, Hattie's pincushion and the more well-known masterwort.
  

• Garden care: Astrantias do not like dry soil. Incorporate plenty of organic matter when planting and water well in dry weather, especially with newly established plants. Lift and divide large clumps in early spring and apply a generous 5-7 cm mulch of well-rotted manure or garden compost around the plant. Divided specimens may take some time to establish since they don't like having their roots disturbed.