Astrantia major Washfield - Masterwort

Astrantia major 'Washfield' is a recent variety of masterwort which stands out for the pretty range of bright pink colours found in its flowers and whose bracts are edged with deep pink. These vibrant colours give the flowers the appearance of jewellery filled with gemstones. Astrantia major is a familiar perennial in cottage gardens, it is a native plant that is so easy to grow that it often finds its way into neglected areas. 'Washfield' has a timeless charm and the vigour of its ancestors. It is also a good flower for dried or fresh bouquets.

Astrantia major, originating from central and eastern Europe, belongs to the family of Apiaceae (formerly known as Umbelliferae), it is a distant relative of the carrot. This plant is the origin of numerous cultivars and hybrids, including the variety 'Washfield', named in honour of a famous specialized English nursery. .  The bushy and somewhat loose habit enhances the elegance of its flowers.  The plant forms a clump 60 cm (24in) in height when flowering, 45 cm (18in) for the foliage, and 45 cm (18in) wide. The foliage is dense, composed of palmate deciduous leaves, with 5 deep lobes, lanceolate, toothed, green and strongly veined. The flowers in umbels appear from June to August-September, at the end of very stiff stems. They are composed of dozens of tiny rather light pink flowers surrounded by a collar of large deeper pink, pearly bracts.

Easy to cultivate, Astrantia major 'Washfield' thrives in humus-rich, moist, and well-drained soil in sunny or semi-shaded positions, even in hot climates. This highly popular plant in contemporary gardens requires little maintenance, thriving even in neglected areas. It pairs beautifully with the pastel colours of foxgloves, phlox, annual poppies, columbines, lungworts... 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.