How to Plant Astrantia

Plant astrantia (masterwort) with the crown level with the soil in part shade and rich soil that stays moist. It does best where summer nights fall below 70°F.

How to Plant Astrantia
When to plant
Early spring, or early fall at least 4–6 weeks before the ground freezes
Depth
Crown level with the soil surface, at the depth it grew before
Spacing
About 18–20 inches apart; a mature clump spreads up to about 20 inches
Sun
Part shade, a few hours of morning sun and dappled shade the rest of the day
Water
Keep continuously moist; water whenever rain falls short
Soil
Fertile, moist, rich in organic matter; any pH

Step by step

  1. Choose a spot with morning sun and dappled afternoon shade. In full shade astrantia grows but flowers sparsely.
  2. Work plenty of compost into the soil so it stays moist.
  3. Set each division with its crown level with the soil surface, spreading the roots out.
  4. Space plants about 18–20 inches apart.
  5. Firm the soil and water thoroughly.
  6. Mulch to hold moisture and keep the roots cool.
  7. Keep the soil moist through the whole first season. Astrantia doesn't tolerate drying out.

After bloom

Deadhead faded flowers to encourage more, or cut the plant back after the main flush fades to tidy it and bring on fresh leaves. Cut spent stems and foliage back in fall, or leave them for winter interest and clear them in early spring. Divide established clumps in early spring or fall.
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