What is Roma Astrantia major?
Astrantia major “Roma” (Masterwort ‘Roma’) has delicate pink flowers that are perched atop thin stems, grouped together into a domed shape. Blooming in late spring and early summer, A. Roma’ prefers full sun to partial shade. Astrantia ‘Roma’ is one of the best varieties, and comes with an RHS AGM. The flowers persist from June to September and won’t self seed as this variety is completely sterile.Known for its long flowering season, ‘Roma’® often begins in early summer and continues well into autumn with regular deadheading. The flowers sit on wiry stems around 60–70 cm tall, bringing texture and subtle colour to woodland edges, cottage borders and naturalistic plantings.Astrantia major “Roma” (Masterwort ‘Roma’) has delicate pink flowers that are perched atop thin stems, grouped together into a domed shape. Blooming in late spring and early summer, A. Roma’ prefers full sun to partial shade.
Is Astrantia major a perennial or annual?
Astrantia major, commonly called greater masterwort, is an upright, umbelliferous, stoloniferous, herbaceous perennial (carrot family) that is native to mountain meadows, grasslands, woodland clearings and moist areas near streams in Europe and western Asia. Suitable for partial shade and moist soils, astrantias are slug- and snail-proof too, making them a valuable asset in any border. Flowering from June to August, they provide a long season of colour for us, and pollen and nectar for insects.Shade loving Astrantia flowers from early to mid or late-summer, its large, lobed leaves entirely untouched by slugs or snails. It can be grown in sun but will turn up its toes if it gets too hot and dry, so keep it well watered in dry weather.After flowering, astrantias can be rejuvenated by cutting them back close to the ground – fresh new foliage and a late crop of flowers start appearing shortly after. Astrantias don’t spread far but are well known for self-seeding.The stems of Astrantia make wonderful long-lasting cut flowers although the scent is not to everyone’s taste. Perhaps mix with sweetly perfumed flowers such as Sweet-peas and Roses in the vase if the smell bothers you. Blooms will last up to 2 weeks in the home if you regularly refresh the water.Thriving in moist, fertile soil, Astrantia is perfect for partially shaded borders, where it blends beautifully with Ferns, Hostas, and Hellebores to create a natural, woodland feel. It also pairs effortlessly with Roses and Geraniums adding depth and softness to mixed plantings.
Where is the best place to plant Astrantia?
All types of Astrantia love to be planted in sun or dappled shade, in soil which is fertile and rich in organic matter. The planting area should be on well-drained ground which ideally stays moist, although once established, Astrantias can cope with drier conditions. As one of the most eye-catching of all summer species, Astrantia are fantastic for cutting and ideal for partially shaded garden spaces where the soil remains moist. Plus, they’re exceptionally pollen-rich, making them very attractive to pollinators.Although they can be grown in full sun, Astrantias dislike drying out and are perfectly suited to a shady spot in the garden. Astrantia major ‘Alba’ grows to approximately 70cm.In the wild Astrantia major grows in dry to slightly moist conditions in open sunny positions in meadows, and sometimes on woodland edges. Astrantia major prefers calcareous substrates, unlike its smaller relative, Astrantia minor, which can tolerate slightly more acidic conditions.Yes, astrantia is a hardy perennial. Well-rooted plants are hardy to -34°C (-30°F).
Does Astrantia repeat flower?
Astrantia ‘Roma’ is a vigorous grower with a longer flowering season than many other pink cultivars, returning reliably each year. It thrives in moisture-retentive, well-drained soil in sun or partial shade, making it a great addition to mixed borders or naturalistic planting schemes. Astrantia grow naturally in well-drained soil that remains moist, in a sunny, partial shade, and even fairly shady spots. They are rather adverse to extremes.Astrantia should ideally be planted where they receive a few hours of sunlight with partial shade for the rest of the day. They are fantastic for mass planting as well as container planting.Sunlight: Astrantia major ‘Roma’ grows well in full sun to partial shade. For the best blooms, choose a location with dappled sunlight or partial shade during the hottest parts of the day.Astrantia are full hardy and can be planted straight outside in the spring. Either plant the roots directly into a clear, prepared space in the border in spring or pot them up into temporary pots to grow on and plant out as potted plants later.
When to plant Astrantia roma?
Spring: The ideal time to plant Astrantia major ‘Roma’ is in spring when the soil has started to warm. This gives the roots enough time to establish before the active growing season begins. Astrantia are full hardy and can be planted straight outside in the spring. Either plant the roots directly into a clear, prepared space in the border in spring or pot them up into temporary pots to grow on and plant out as potted plants later.Should I cut back astrantia? Yes, astrantia should be cut down to the ground in either autumn or early spring. It can also be lightly chopped midseason to promote a second flush of flowers.