Description
‘Claret’ is one of the darkest flowering astrantias with the deepest ruby red flowers surrounded by crimson bracts. Leaves also provide interest and are deeply lobed with a dark green colouring. Astrantia is a common addition to cottage style planting but has become increasingly popular in contemporary style plantings in the ‘New Perennial Movement’. ‘Claret’ looks fantastic towards the front of a sunny border of moisture retentive soil where their richly coloured flowers will stop visitors in their tracks.
Height and spread: 0.5 - 1 m Height, 0.5m Spread
Common name: Masterwort, Hattie’s Pincushion
Position in the garden: Full sun, partial shade
Soil type: Fertile, preferably humus rich soil
Flowering period: June to August
Hardiness: Fully Hardy
Goes well with:
Flowers - Anthriscus sylvestris ‘Ravenswing’, Allium hollafdicum ‘Purple Sensation’ (ornamental onion).
Grasses - Stipa tenuissima (feather grass)
Care of Astrantia major 'Claret'
Add plenty of moisture retaining organic matter to the soil as astrantias will suffer if allowed to dry out, newly established plants should be watered regularly in dry weather. Large clumps can be divided in early Spring but may take some time to establish as they don’t like root disturbance. A heavy 5-7cm mulch applied around newly divides plants will make the transition easier.
Wildlife benefits
Provides four months of pollen and nectar for bees, hoverflies, butterflies and other insects. Also provides winter homes for ladybirds.
