WHAT: The Astrantia major Rubra, a masterwort, adds richness to the garden with its luminescent maroon blooms that fade to a silver white in the center.
Each of blooms of this deciduous spreading perennial consists of a ruff of papery bracts.
WHY PLANT IT: The compact plant blooms in late spring to midsummer and attracts bees and butterflies to the garden.
Once the first flush of flowers has finished either enjoy the dry seed heads or cut it to the ground to minimize seedlings and to enjoy a second flush of late season bloom.
WHERE: Masterwort thrives in rich well-drained soil, but will tolerate sand and clay. Plant this perennial in full sun to light or open shade and provide regular watering during dry weather.
Although it will tolerate dappled shade the flowering will be sparse.
SIZE: A 10-year-old woody plant or a 5-year-old perennial or bulb will grow to 2.5 high by 1.5 feet wide.
LEARN MORE: www.greatplantpicks.com.
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