About

Astrantia carniolica is a perennial herb that grows in upright clumps, reaching approximately 45 cm tall. It features finely divided, mid-green foliage that adds texture to the garden. In late June, branched stems emerge, showcasing compact clusters of soft, fluted white blooms encircled by green-tipped bracts. If the plant is pruned after the initial flowering, a second wave of blooms may appear in late summer.

About the genus

Astrantia is a group of herbaceous perennials that grow in clumps, featuring basal leaves that are palmately lobed. The plants develop upright, slender stems that showcase dense clusters of small flowers, which are encircled by a whorl of prominent bracts.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.1-0.5 metres
Spread
0.5-1 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Coastal, Cottage and informal garden

Care notes

Cultivation
Best grown in moist, fertile, humus-rich soil in sun or partial shade but will tolerate drier conditions
Pruning
Deadhead to prolong flowering. Cut back after flowering to encourage a second flush in late summer
Propagation
Propagate by division in spring
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to astrantia leaf miner
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to powdery mildews