Already I am yearning for spring and my thoughts each year focus on a single clump forming plant whose variegated foliage appears outside my diningroom window. This is Astrantia major "Sunningdale Variegated". Although this plant has the palest of pink bracts in summer, it is the palmate lobed foliage that is irresistable and cheers me on.

All the spring bulbs stand out with this Astrantia as their companion. Take a look at it with Muscari

or with tulips.

Later in July it combines with dark lilies which bring out the same hint of color in the blooms.

"Sunningdale" keeps its variegation longest when planted in a full sun area, but the foliage will eventually become mostly green by August. It enjoys moist and fertile soil and after three or four years will form a huge perfect mound about three feet across.

There are several other Astrantias, some with bright red and plum colors such as Ruby Wedding, Claret, Lars and Hadspen's Blood. "Shaggy" displays large greenish white flowers and grows two to three feet tall. Here you see Astrantia major Rubra.

These plants will self seed freely, so if this is not desired, deadheading should be carried out. Favorites for flower arranging, Astrantias are reliably hardy plants and enjoy moist semi-shade. (Zone 4-7) These are subtle plants and care should be taken in choosing their companions. I have seen Cimicifuga "Hillside Black Beauty" paired with A."Ruby Wedding, and A."Shaggy" blended beautifully with Lady's Mantle and ferns.

I can't wait!

Written by
Gardenbug