Overview
Astrantia major 'Sunningdale Variegated' is a herbaceous perennial in the genus Astrantia, part of the Apiaceae family. It typically grows around 0.8 m tall. Astrantia major 'Sunningdale Variegated' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to central and eastern Europe.
About
Astrantia major 'Sunningdale Variegated' is a herbaceous perennial masterwort valued for its variegated foliage and upright habit, reaching about 0.8 m. It belongs to the Apiaceae and originates from central and eastern Europe. Plants suit moist but well-drained soils and are grown in full sun. Allow for its fully hardy nature when choosing a permanent position.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Astrantia major
About the genus
Astrantia is a genus of herbaceous plants in the family Apiaceae, native to Central, Eastern and Southern Europe and the Caucasus. There are several species, which have aromatic roots, palmate leaves, and decorative flowers. They are commonly known as great masterwort or masterwort which may also refer to other plants, particularly the unrelated Peucedanum ostruthium.
Wikipedia contributors, "Astrantia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Astrantia
In the garden
Astrantia major 'Sunningdale Variegated' is a herbaceous perennial in the Apiaceae, selected for its variegated leaves and compact, upright growth to roughly 0.8 m. It comes from central and eastern Europe and carries the common name Masterwort; the cultivar name indicates the key foliage trait to expect in a mixed planting. Site plants in full sun on soils that can be sandy, loamy or clay, provided they remain moist but well-drained. It tolerates the range of British winters given its H7 rating (fully hardy) and also corresponds to USDA zones 4–9. Planting at a sensible spacing to allow air to circulate around the variegated leaves will help avoid prolonged damp around the crown. Use Astrantia major 'Sunningdale Variegated' towards the middle or rear of herbaceous borders where its variegation can lift neighbouring green foliage. It is well suited to moist border situations and will reach its listed height without staking. Expect its flowering display from June to August, with blooms emerging over the variegated leaves.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Astrantia
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Astrantia major 'Sunningdale Variegated' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- herbaceous perennial
- Height
- 0.8 m
- Native to
- central and eastern Europe
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Astrantia major 'Sunningdale Variegated'?
Astrantia major 'Sunningdale Variegated' prefers full sun.
What soil does Astrantia major 'Sunningdale Variegated' need?
Astrantia major 'Sunningdale Variegated' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How big does Astrantia major 'Sunningdale Variegated' grow?
Astrantia major 'Sunningdale Variegated' reaches a height of 0.8 m.
Is Astrantia major 'Sunningdale Variegated' hardy in the UK?
Astrantia major 'Sunningdale Variegated' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
More in the Astrantia genus
- Astrantia 'Roma'Masterwort
- Astrantia major 'Capri'Great Masterwort
- Astrantia major 'Shaggy'Great Masterwort
- Astrantia 'Moulin Rouge'Masterwort
- Astrantia 'Shaggy'Masterwort