Contents
Description
Astrantia Major Buckland, also known as the Masterwort, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to Europe and grows up to 80 cm in height. The plant has a clump-forming habit and produces branched stems with dark green leaves that are deeply lobed.The plant produces flowers that are surrounded by a collar of bracts. The flowers are small and star-shaped, with colours ranging from pink to deep crimson. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and are long-lasting.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Astrantia |
Appearance
Astrantia Major Buckland has a distinct appearance that sets it apart from other plants. The plant has dark green leaves that are deeply lobed and grow up to 30 cm in length. The stems are branched and grow up to 80 cm in height. The flowers are small and star-shaped, with colours ranging from pink to deep crimson. The flowers are surrounded by a collar of bracts that give them a unique appearance.The plant blooms from late spring to early summer and is long-lasting. The flowers are followed by seed heads that can be used in dried flower arrangements.
Care Guide
Astrantia Major Buckland is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for the plant:- Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: The plant benefits from fertilization in early spring. Use a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering.- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Ensure that the soil is not too acidic.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. Avoid planting the plant in areas with harsh afternoon sun.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Astrantia Major Buckland is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, the plant can be affected by the following:- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on leaves. Ensure that the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.- Slugs and Snails: These pests can cause damage to the leaves and flowers. Use slug bait to control slugs and snails.
Habitat
Astrantia Major Buckland is native to Europe and can be found growing in woodlands, meadows, and along streams. The plant prefers cool and moist conditions and is often found growing in partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Astrantia Major Buckland invasive?
A: No, the plant is not considered invasive.
Q: Can Astrantia Major Buckland be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage.
Q: How often should Astrantia Major Buckland be fertilized?
A: The plant benefits from fertilization in early spring. Use a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Q: How do I propagate Astrantia Major Buckland?
A: The plant can be propagated by division in early spring or autumn.
Related Plants
– Astrantia ‘Hadspen Blood’- Astrantia ‘Roma’- Astrantia ‘Venice’- Astrantia ‘White Giant’- Astrantia carniolica
References
– RHS (2021). Astrantia major ‘Buckland’. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/64822/Astrantia-major-Buckland/Details- Missouri Botanical Garden (2021). Astrantia major. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279821&isprofile=0&bloomtime=0&bloomcolor=0&height=0&ph=0&moisture=0&texture=0&form=0
