Astrantia maxima (largest masterwort) — perennial

Overview

Astrantia maxima is a perennial in the genus Astrantia, part of the Apiaceae family. Astrantia maxima grows best in partial shade and full sun, and tolerates moist and well-drained soil soils and neutral and slightly acidic pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, woodland gardens and cut flowers. It is native to Turkey, Caucasus and Iran.

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 maxima, the largest masterwort, is an herbaceous perennial in the Apiaceae native to Turkey, the Caucasus and Iran. It carries multiple bracted umbrella-like flower heads on upright stems; the small central flowers range from pale pink to white and come into bloom from June to August. The plant is prized for these clustered, long-lasting inflorescences rather than single large flowers. Position plants where the soil remains moist yet free-draining and is neutral to slightly acidic. It tolerates full sun but benefits from some shelter from the hottest afternoon sun — in sunnier spots keep the root run consistently moist. Astrantia maxima is rated H7, which means it is fully hardy in UK gardens and does not normally require winter protection. Use largest masterwort in mixed herbaceous borders, under light tree canopy in woodland-style beds, or in dedicated areas for cut flowers. The bracted umbels sit well above neighbouring perennials and are durable in summer arrangements, making the plant useful both in the border and for harvesting into the vase.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Astrantia

Sunlight: partial shade, full sun
Soil type: moist, well-drained soil
Soil pH: neutral, slightly acidic
Soil moisture: moist
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Astrantia maxima size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Suggested uses: borders, woodland gardens, cut flowers
Native to: Turkey, Caucasus, Iran

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Astrantia maxima

Cultivation: Prefers moist, humus-rich soil in partial shade; mulch in winter
Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming
Propagation: division, seed

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Astrantia maxima?

Prefers moist, humus-rich soil in partial shade; mulch in winter.

Where is the best place to plant Astrantia maxima?

Astrantia maxima prefers partial shade and full sun.

What soil does Astrantia maxima need?

Astrantia maxima grows best in moist and well-drained soil soil. It prefers neutral and slightly acidic soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.

How do I prune Astrantia maxima?

Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming.

Is Astrantia maxima hardy in the UK?

Astrantia maxima has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.