Overview

Alchemilla mollis 'Thriller' is a perennial in the genus Alchemilla, part of the Rosaceae family. It typically grows around 0.6 m tall. Alchemilla mollis 'Thriller' grows best in full sun and full shade, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, groundcover and cottage gardens. It is native to Europe.

About

Alchemilla mollis 'Thriller' is an herbaceous perennial in the Rosaceae that forms a leafy mound topped by sprays of chartreuse-yellow flowers from June to August. The foliage is palmately veined with scalloped margins and holds water droplets on the surface. It is grown as an ornamental and has a history of use in gardens. Plants can spread by self-seeding, so siting and routine removal of seedlings will control its spread.

About the genus

Alchemilla is a genus of herbaceous perennial plants in the family Rosaceae, with the common name lady's mantle applied generically as well as specifically to Alchemilla mollis when referred to as a garden plant. The plant used as a herbal tea or for medicinal usage such as gynaecological disorders is Alchemilla xanthochlora or in Middle Europe the so-called common lady's mantle Alchemilla vulgaris. There are about 700 species, the majority native to cool temperate and subarctic regions of Europe and Asia, with a few species native to the mountains of Africa and the Americas.

Wikipedia contributors, "Alchemilla", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Alchemilla

In the garden

Alchemilla mollis 'Thriller' belongs to the genus Alchemilla within the rose family (Rosaceae) and is cultivated for its soft-textured foliage and clusters of chartreuse-yellow flowers. Flowering occurs in the UK from June to August, when the small, lantern-like blooms are carried above the leaves. The leaf surface repels water, forming beads that remain on the foliage after rain or watering. Choose a place where the foliage can be seen close to the path or in the front of a mixed border; the contrast of fine flower sprays above rounded leaves is its main garden asset. Plant into prepared soil with good contact at the rootball and allow room for seedlings if you do not remove them — this form is known to set seed freely. Cutting spent flower stems will tidy the clump after flowering and reduce self-seeding the following season. It has been awarded recognition by the Royal Horticultural Society, reflecting its garden merits. Regularly check the bed for volunteer plants if you want to keep it contained, and thin or lift sections as required. Expect sprays of chartreuse-yellow flowers from June to August that sit well above the foliage and define its season in the border.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Alchemilla

Sunlight

Full sun, Full shade

Soil type

Sandy, Loamy, Clay

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained

UK hardiness

H7

Plant details

Alchemilla mollis 'Thriller' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

perennial

Height

0.6 m

Suggested uses

borders, groundcover, cottage gardens

Native to

Europe

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Alchemilla mollis 'Thriller'

Cultivation

Prefers moist, well-drained soil; tolerates a range of light conditions from full sun to shade; remove spent flowers to encourage tidiness; may self-seed

Pruning

Cut back old foliage in early spring to encourage fresh growth

Propagation

Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation possible but may not come true to type

Frequently asked questions