Alchemilla mollis

Alchemilla mollis Family: Rosaceae
(al-kem-ILL-ah MAWL-iss)
syn. Alchemilla vulgaris

Common name: lady’s mantle
Zone: 3 – 8
Height:18-24 in (45-60 cm) Spread:18-24 in (45-60 cm)
Aspect: full sun; partial shade
Soil: average
Water: moderate

Description: An herbaceous perennial with good ground-covering foliage that forms a neat mound. Soft, pale grey-green rounded leaves are lobed and have crinkled edges. Airy sprays of tiny greenish-yellow flowers from spring to mid-summer.

 

Special Notes: Native to Greece, Turkey and Caucasus. The 2 – 4 inch (5 – 10 cm) leaves hold small droplets of water and dew. Good cut flower; dries well for floral arranging. Prolific self-seeder. Cut entire plant back to ground when flowers are spent and before they set seed. Relatively pest and disease free. May get powdery mildew in hot humid climate. Drought tolerant. Propagation by seed; division in spring or autumn.

 

RHS Award of Garden Merit 1993

 

Posted on December 17, 2012