Description
A rather lovely Astrantia with large, dark red flowers, the bracts are tinged at the end very, very dark red and the mid-green leaves are tinged with dark red as they emerge. Seedlings can also be very dark. Pull out any green leaved ones. Astrantias are superb perennials for growing under trees, on a stream bank or in a moist border. They prefer moist soils but will tolerate drier conditions as long as the plants are mulched. Astrantia major ‘Gill Richardson’ is a gorgeous variety with large, cherry red flowers. After flowering, astrantias can be rejuvenated by cutting them back close to the ground – fresh new foliage and a late crop of flowers appear shortly after. Astrantias don’t spread far but are well known for self-seeding
.
Position: Full sun/partial shade
Soil: Moist, well drained
Rate of growth: Moderate
Flowering period: Late spring to autumn
Hardiness: Hardy
Pot size: 9cm
Eventual height & spread: 80 cm x 40 cm
