Horticulture/Alchemilla

Lady's Mantles Alchemilla alpina.JPG Alchemilla Rosaceae Perennials Some species self-seed freely Insects Alchemilla is a genus of herbaceous perennial plants in the Rosaceae, commonly known as Lady's mantle. There are about 300 species, the majority native to cool temperate and subarctic regions of Europe and Asia, but a few species are native to the mountains of Africa, North America and South America. Description Rhizomatous, ground-covering plants with palmately veined, usually lobed leaves. Growing Conditions Humus rich, moist, but well-drained soils, sun to part shade. Species Cultivated species include: ../Alchemilla alpina/ ../Alchemilla conjuncta/ ../Alchemilla ellenbeckii/ ../Alchemilla erythropoda/ ../Alchemilla faeroensis/ ../Alchemilla fulgens/ ../Alchemilla mollis/ ../Alchemilla xanthochlora/ Uses Prinarily grown as ground covers or container plants, but also grown for cut flowers and herbal gardens. Some species are also adapted to rock gardens. Uses in herbalism include a leaf decoction is used to treat sore eyes, sore skin and also to staunch bleeding. An infusion is used to regulate periods. Maintenance Cut back flowers to encourage further blooming. Can be cut back to the ground in midsummer to spur new foliar growth. Propagation Division or seed. Pests and Diseases ../Powdery Mildew/ ../Leaf Spots/ ../Caterpillars/ Emperor Moth: ../Pavonia pavonia/ Grizzled Skipper: ../Pyrgus malvae/ ../Slugs and Snails/ References