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Description
Astrantia Major April Love, also known as Great Masterwort, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to Europe and can grow up to a height of 60cm. This plant features unique flowers that are surrounded by papery bracts, which makes it an attractive addition to any garden. The flowers bloom in the summer and come in shades of pink, red, and white. Astrantia Major April Love is a hardy plant that can survive in different types of soil and can tolerate partial shade.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Astrantia |
Appearance
Astrantia Major April Love has a clump-forming habit and produces basal rosettes of leaves. The leaves are deeply lobed and dark green in color. The flowers are held above the foliage on stiff stems and bloom in the summer. The flower heads consist of numerous small flowers surrounded by papery bracts, which gives the appearance of a pincushion. The colors of the flowers range from pink, red, and white, and they have a diameter of 3cm.
Care Guide
To ensure the healthy growth of Astrantia Major April Love, it is essential to provide proper care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization as this can damage the plant.
- Soil: Plant Astrantia Major April Love in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
- Sunlight: Astrantia Major April Love prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun if the soil is moist.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Astrantia Major April Love is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to aphids and spider mites. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by leaf spot disease, which causes yellowing and browning of the leaves. This disease can be prevented by ensuring proper air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Astrantia Major April Love is native to Europe and can be found growing in woodlands, meadows, and along riverbanks. This plant prefers moist soil and partial shade but can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Astrantia Major April Love a good plant for beginner gardeners?
A: Yes, Astrantia Major April Love is a relatively easy plant to care for and is a good choice for beginner gardeners.
Q: Can Astrantia Major April Love be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the pot is large enough to accommodate its root system.
Q: Does Astrantia Major April Love attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the flowers of this plant attract bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should Astrantia Major April Love be fertilized?
A: This plant should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Astrantia major
- Astrantia maxima
- Astrantia carniolica
- Astrantia bavarica
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/astrantia-major-april-love-great-masterwort
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/12865/astrantia-major-april-love/details
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/astrantia/astrantia-major-plant-care.htm
