Alchemilla mollis
Lady's Mantle | |
---|---|
Binomial: | Alchemilla mollis |
Family: | Rosaceae |
Type: | Herbaceous perennial |
Light requirements: | Full sun to light shade |
Water requirements: | Drought tolerant |
Soil requirements: | Well-drained |
USDA Hardiness Zone: | 4-7 |
Weediness: | Weedy |
Pollination: | Insects |
Vegetative Spread: | Spreading clumps |
Growth rate: | Medium |
Alchemilla mollis, Lady's Mantle, is an herbaceous perennial plant native to Southern Europe, but grown throughout the world as an ornamental garden plant. The plant is primarily grown as a ground cover, and is especially valued for the leaves in wet weather, as the water beads up and sparkles on the leaves.
Description[edit | edit source]
The leaves are palmately veined, with a scalloped and serrated margin. The flowers are held in dense clusters above the foliage and are greenish yellow.
Growing conditions[edit | edit source]
Rich, well-drained soils in ful sun to very light shade.
Varieties[edit | edit source]
Some cultivars have been selected.
Uses[edit | edit source]
The plant has been used for centuries as a herbal remedy. Since it contains tannin, Lady's Mantle has properties of an astringent. It is also used by some as a gynecological treatment to suppress menstruation and reduce vagina irritation. No scientific studies have confirmed the beneficial effect of Alchemilla mollis as an herbal treatment.
Maintenance[edit | edit source]
Prune off browned foliage in early spring. Deadhead to prevent seeding and encourage rebloom.
Propagation[edit | edit source]
Division or seed, self-seeds readily.
Pests and diseases[edit | edit source]
See Alchemilla for a list of pests and diseases.
References[edit | edit source]
- Book:Horticulture/Finder/Types/Ground Covers, Herbaceous
- Book:Horticulture/Finder/Special/Weedy or Aggressive
- Book:Horticulture/Finder/Lifetime/Perennial
- Book:Horticulture/Finder/Conditions/Part Shade
- Book:Horticulture/Finder/Conditions/Full Sun
- Book:Horticulture/Finder/Uses/Medicine
- Book:Horticulture/Finder/Native/Europe