Astrantia major subsp. involucrata ‘Gill Richardson’: A Delightful Herbaceous Perennial
Astrantia major subsp. involucrata ‘Gill Richardson’ is an upright, herbaceous perennial that belongs to the Apiaceae family. Commonly known as Masterwort, this plant offers a variety of delightful features and is also referred to as Masterwort Gill Richardson Group, Astrantia major ‘Gill Richardson’, Astrantia ‘Gill Richardson’, Great Masterwort ‘Gill Richardson’, Melancoly Gentleman ‘Gil Richardson‘, and Hattie’s Pincushion ‘Gil Richardson’. Native to Europe, it thrives in moist environments and brings beauty to gardens with its captivating crimson-red flowers.
Blooms and Foliage
Astrantia major subsp. involucrata ‘Gill Richardson’ graces the summer season with its stunning cherry-red or crimson-red flowers. Each stem produces umbels of these captivating blooms, surrounded by attractive red bracts that enhance their visual appeal. The plant has a unique quality – after the initial flowering period, cutting it back to the ground may surprise you with a second round of blossoms. The foliage of this perennial begins with a charming red tinge, gradually transitioning to a deep green hue.
How to grow Astrantia major subsp. involucrata ‘Gill Richardson’:
Growing Astrantia major subsp. involucrata ‘Gill Richardson’ is a rewarding experience, and here are some tips to ensure its successful cultivation:
Sun and Soil: Plant this herbaceous perennial in a location that receives either full sun or partial shade. It thrives in moist soil, such as clay or humus-rich fertile soil. Notably, it demonstrates excellent tolerance to wet conditions.
Height and Spread: Expect Astrantia major subsp. involucrata ‘Gill Richardson’ to reach a height of approximately 90cm or 3ft. Its clump-forming nature contributes to its attractive appearance in the garden.
Propagation: Divide the plant during the spring season for easy propagation. This method allows you to expand your Astrantia collection and share its beauty with others.
Maintenance: To encourage a prolonged flowering season, regularly deadhead the faded flowers. Keep a watchful eye for potential pests such as the astrantia leaf miner and powdery mildew, and take appropriate measures to address them promptly.
Deer Resistance: Astrantia major subsp. involucrata ‘Gill Richardson’ is known for its deer-resistant nature, providing peace of mind that your blooms will remain undisturbed.
Disease-Free: This perennial displays remarkable resistance to diseases, allowing you to enjoy its beauty without the need for constant monitoring and maintenance.
Enchanting and Versatile
Astrantia major subsp. involucrata ‘Gill Richardson’ delights with its captivating crimson-red blooms and ease of cultivation. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a novice enthusiast, this herbaceous perennial offers a charming addition to any garden. With its resistance to pests, disease-free nature, and the potential for a prolonged flowering period, it brings joy and elegance to borders, beds, and other garden settings. Embrace the enchanting beauty of Astrantia major subsp. involucrata ‘Gill Richardson’ and experience the pleasure it brings to your outdoor space.
