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Description
Alchemilla Xanthochlora, also known as Lady’s Mantle, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the family Rosaceae. It is native to the mountains of Europe and Asia, but it can also be found in North America, where it has been introduced as an ornamental plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Alchemilla |
Appearance
Alchemilla Xanthochlora grows up to 30 cm tall and 60 cm wide. Its leaves are round, deeply lobed, and have a velvety texture. They are light green, almost gray, and have a diameter of about 6 cm. The plant produces clusters of tiny, yellow-green flowers in the summer. The flowers have no petals, but they have sepals that form a cup-shaped calyx. The plant spreads by rhizomes and can form dense mats in suitable conditions.
Care Guide
Alchemilla Xanthochlora is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in well-drained soil and partial shade. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but do not overwater it as it can cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can add some compost or organic matter to the soil in the spring to improve its fertility.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade, but it can tolerate full sun if the soil is moist.
- Hardiness Zones: Alchemilla Xanthochlora grows best in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Alchemilla Xanthochlora is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause deformation of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. It can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and providing good air circulation.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. It can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Alchemilla Xanthochlora is native to the mountains of Europe and Asia, where it grows in alpine meadows and rocky slopes. It prefers cool and moist environments and can tolerate cold temperatures and high altitudes. In North America, it is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Alchemilla Xanthochlora grow in full sun?
A: Yes, but it prefers partial shade.
Q: Does Alchemilla Xanthochlora require fertilization?
A: No, but you can add some compost or organic matter to the soil in the spring to improve its fertility.
Q: How often should I water Alchemilla Xanthochlora?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but do not overwater it as it can cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Alchemilla Xanthochlora?
A: The plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by aphids, leaf spot, and powdery mildew.
Related Plants
- Alchemilla mollis
- Alchemilla erythropoda
- Alchemilla alpina
- Alchemilla glaucescens
References
- “Alchemilla Xanthochlora.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279461&isprofile=0&basic=alchemilla%20xanthochlora.
- “Alchemilla Xanthochlora.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/101767/Alchemilla-xanthochlora/Details.
- “Lady’s Mantle (Alchemilla).” Garden Design. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/alchemilla.html.
