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Description
Astrantia Major, commonly known as Star of Beauty, is a beautiful flowering plant that is native to Europe. It is a member of the Apiaceae family and is a hardy perennial that can grow up to 60cm tall. The plant is characterized by its large and intricate flowers that bloom in summer and autumn.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Astrantia |
Appearance
The Astrantia Major has a beautiful and intricate flower head that measures up to 6cm in diameter. The flowers are surrounded by a collar of bracts, which are similar in appearance to petals. The plant has dark green leaves that are deeply lobed and have a serrated edge. The stems of the plant are thin and wiry, and can grow up to 60cm tall.
Care Guide
The Astrantia Major is an easy plant to care for and requires minimal attention. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during dry periods. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade, although it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Astrantia Major is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by powdery mildew and rust. These can be treated with a fungicide, or by removing and destroying affected leaves.
Habitat
The Astrantia Major is native to Europe and can be found growing in woodland areas and meadows. It prefers moist soil and partial shade, although it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Astrantia Major a good cut flower?
A: Yes, the Astrantia Major makes an excellent cut flower and can be used in floral arrangements.
Q: Can the Astrantia Major be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Astrantia Major can be grown in containers as long as the soil is kept moist and the plant is given partial shade.
Q: Does the Astrantia Major attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the Astrantia Major is a popular plant for bees and butterflies.
Q: Can the Astrantia Major be propagated by division?
A: Yes, the Astrantia Major can be propagated by division in spring or autumn.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Astrantia genus include:
- Astrantia carniolica
- Astrantia maxima
- Astrantia major ‘Rubra’
- Astrantia ‘Hadspen Blood’
References
- https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/astrantia-major/
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/959/astrantia-major/details
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/astrantia-major-great-masterwort
