Exceptionally adaptable plant thrives in all types of soil, lighting conditions, and offers continuous blooming for extended periods
In the heart of the UK's picturesque gardens, a star-shaped bloom is making a captivating appearance. Astrantias, hardy perennials from the umbellifer family, are naturally well-suited to cope with the changes in the current climate, thriving in both wet winters and drier summers.
These resilient plants, known for their small, pincushion-like flowers and star-shaped bracts, have few pest or disease problems. However, they may be affected by powdery mildew if the soil is too dry, or astrantia leaf miner, which can be seen as silvery tunnels in the leaves.
Astrantias are commonly grown in the UK from three species, with a few more occasionally found for sale. The long flowering season of astrantias lasts from early summer to autumn, making them an ideal choice for those seeking colour throughout the warmer months.
Moreover, astrantias make excellent, long-lasting cut flowers, and their umbelliferous flowers are popular with pollinators, providing pollen and nectar to short-tongued pollinators such as hoverflies, beetles, and smaller bumblebees.
When it comes to choosing the best Astrantia cultivars for the UK, hardiness and resilience are key. The Sparkling Stars Series, which comes in white, pink, and other shades, is a notable series that has proven to be grown successfully in light, sandy soil and full sun conditions in the UK, showing good adaptability.
Classic types of Astrantia major, with varying flower colours, are also popular choices. Although specific cultivar names like 'Cerise Button' are popular, detailed growing advice for these cultivars was not found in the search results.
To get the best results in the UK climate, it’s advised to plant Astrantia in cooler months and water regularly during the first summer to establish the plants well. They also do well in sheltered or lightly shaded spots, benefiting from moisture without becoming waterlogged.
Astrantias are hardy throughout the UK with an RHS hardiness rating of H7, and suitable for gardens in USDA zones 4a to 7b. These long-flowering plants are not only a beautiful addition to any garden, but they also provide a practical benefit by attracting pollinators and making excellent cut flowers.
So, whether you're planning a new garden or looking to add some vibrant colour to an existing one, consider the hardy and captivating astrantias. With their long flowering season and adaptability to both shade and sun, they are sure to brighten up any space.
The resilient astrantias, with their long flowering season, are an excellent choice for home-and-garden lifestyle, providing color from early summer to autumn. These plants, ideal for pollinators and perfect as cut flowers, are suitable for gardens in the UK and USDA zones 4a to 7b. With their umbelliferous flowers and star-shaped blooms, they can brighten up any space in your garden.
