Astrantia
( ass - TRANT - ee - uh )
At-A-Glance Information
This genus of flowering perennials takes full sun or partial shade and regular water. They are native to meadows and woodland areas of Central, Eastern and Southern Europe and the Caucasus and look great in cottage-style gardens. Also called Masterwort, this plant forms lush, leafy clumps of green and produces flowers surrounded by papery bracts, giving the flowers a bit of a pincushion look. Cut flowers are long-lasting in arrangements, and are also great when dried. Masterwort will spread slowly by way of underground runners, and die back to the ground in wintertime. All species need good drainage for best performance.
|
Astrantia Species and Varietals
The genus Astrantia is in the plant family Apiaceae, and includes 10 species. The best growing zones for Astrantia are 1-9 and 14-24. For more growing information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Astrantia carniolica (Carniolan Masterwort, Red Masterwort) Plants in this species rarely surpass 18 inches in height, and produce white (or pink-red) flowers. The specific epithet carniolica refers to a region once called Carnolia (present-day Slovenia). These flowering plants are commonly found in their native range growing in mountains and grasslands, close to streams, and in calcareous soil. Variety 'Rubra' produces red flowers in summertime. |
Astrantia major (Great Masterwort)
This species reaches 3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide, and its varieties have a range of flower colors, from shades of white (the species' true color) to red-pink to purple. Varietals are outlined below.
This species reaches 3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide, and its varieties have a range of flower colors, from shades of white (the species' true color) to red-pink to purple. Varietals are outlined below.
Astrantia maxima (Largest Masterwort, Hellebore-Leaved Masterwort) Largest Masterwort is native to Eastern Europe and the Caucasus. This species grows to 35 inches tall and 2 feet wide. Pink bracts sit open, surrounding light pink flowers. These plants were first discovered by botanist Peter Simon Pallas in the year 1790. This species is a great garden addition, and requires some shade and moisture to thrive well. |
Caring for Astrantia
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
|
Propagating camellias
|
Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 178, Astrantia
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or photos you’d like to add to the gallery, please let me know by sending me a message using the button below!