Astrantia Maxima

Description

Astrantia Maxima, also known as the Great Masterwort, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Apiaceae. It is native to the mountainous regions of central and southern Europe, where it grows in meadows and woodland edges. The plant produces large umbels of pinkish-red flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The unique shape of the flowers, with their papery bracts, give the plant a distinctive appearance.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Astrantia Maxima grows up to 90 cm tall and 60 cm wide. It has dark green, lobed leaves that are deeply cut and toothed. The plant produces large umbels of pinkish-red flowers that are up to 7 cm in diameter. The flowers have a unique shape, with papery bracts that surround the central cluster of small flowers. The bracts are greenish-white and have a star-like appearance, while the flowers themselves are small and inconspicuous, with white or pink petals. After flowering, the plant produces small, round, brownish-black fruits.

Care Guide

Astrantia Maxima is a relatively easy plant to care for, as long as its basic needs are met. Here are some care tips:Water: The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil, so water it regularly, especially during dry spells.Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula, in spring and mid-summer.Soil: The plant prefers rich, organic soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy or clayey, improve it by adding compost or well-rotted manure.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.Hardiness Zones: Astrantia Maxima is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Astrantia Maxima is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust. To prevent these problems, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If you notice any signs of disease, remove the affected leaves or plant parts and dispose of them in the trash.

Habitat

Astrantia Maxima is native to the mountainous regions of central and southern Europe, where it grows in meadows and woodland edges. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Astrantia Maxima deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Astrantia Maxima is generally deer-resistant.Q: Can Astrantia Maxima be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Astrantia Maxima can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and the soil is well-drained.Q: When is the best time to plant Astrantia Maxima?
A: The best time to plant Astrantia Maxima is in spring or fall.Q: How often should I divide my Astrantia Maxima?
A: Divide the plant every three to four years to maintain its vigor and prevent overcrowding.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Astrantia Maxima:

• Astrantia major
• Astrantia carniolica
• Astrantia bavarica

References

• “Astrantia maxima – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed May 13, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277434&isprofile=0&basic=Astrantia%20maxima.
• “Astrantia maxima.” RHS. Accessed May 13, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/4884/Astrantia-maxima/Details.
• “Astrantia maxima.” Plant Lust. Accessed May 13, 2021. https://www.plantlust.com/plants/25075/astrantia-maxima/.