Astrantia major Star of Treasure - Masterwort

Astrantia major 'Star of Treasure' is a recent variety of masterwort that stands out for its compact and branching habit, its large-sized flowers, and its long flowering period. A beautiful colour, between old rose and burgundy red, characterizes these inflorescences.  Astrantia major is a perennial accustomed to cottage gardens, an indigenous plant that is so easy to grow that it often finds its way into neglected places. 'Star of Treasure' flowers from late spring to September. Perfect at the front of semi-shaded flower beds, it is stunning in containers. It is also a good flower for both dried and fresh bouquets.

Astrantia major, native to central and eastern Europe, belongs to the family Apiaceae (formerly known as Umbelliferae), and is a distant relative of the carrot. This plant is the origin of numerous cultivars and hybrids, including the recent variety 'Star of Treasure'. Its habit is bushy, with branching stems producing abundant and repeat flowering. The plant forms a clump of 40-45cm in height when in flower and 35-40 cm (14-16in) wide. The foliage is dense, composed of deciduous palmate leaves, with 5 deep lobes, lanceolate, dentate, of a rather dark green colour and strongly veined. The flowers in umbels appear from June to September, at the end of short and sturdy stems. They are composed of dozens of tiny star-shaped purple-pink and white flowers, surrounded by a collar of large bracts which are a deeper shade of pink to burgundy red.

Easy to grow, Astrantia major 'Star of Treasure' thrives in humus-rich (even limestone), moist, and well-drained soil in sunny or semi-shaded positions, even full shade in warm climates. This plant, very popular in contemporary gardens, requires little maintenance and thrives even in neglected areas. It pairs beautifully with the pastel colours of foxgloves, perennial geraniums, annual poppies, columbines, lungworts, and carefree plants. Combine it with perennials and roses in any style of garden: modern, natural, or romantic.

Tips: Combine several varieties to create a beautiful colour palette.