Astrantia major Princesse Sturdza - Masterwort

Astrantia major Princesse Sturdza, also known as masterwort, offers inflorescences of exceptional size, white with lavender reflections, up to 5 cm (2in) in diameter, with green-tipped petals. Its timeless charm can be appreciated throughout the summer. Familiar in cottage gardens and easy to grow in cool soil, it often finds its way into neglected corners. It has simple grace and an accommodating nature. A good flower for both dried and fresh bouquets.

Astrantia major, native to central and eastern Europe, belongs to the Apiaceae family (formerly known as Umbellifers), making it a distant relative of the carrot. The bushy and somewhat loose habit enhances the elegance of the flowers. The plant forms a clump 50 cm (20in) tall when in bloom, and 45 cm (18in) wide. The foliage is dense, composed of deciduous palmate leaves with 5 deep lobes, lanceolate, toothed, green, and strongly veined. The particularly large flowers, in umbels, appear from June to August at the top of very stiff stems. They are composed of dozens of small white flowers, each tipped with lavender, surrounded by collar-like large bracts, also white and tipped and veined with green.

Easy to grow, Astrantia major 'Princesse Sturdza' thrives in humus-rich, moist, and well-drained soil in sunny, semi-shady, or even shady positions in warm climates. This variety with large flowers has a strong personality while retaining the charm of cottage plants. Very popular in contemporary gardens, it requires little maintenance and thrives even in neglected gardens. It is particularly well-suited to the 'meadow' style, planted in drifts, as its flowers, which complement ornamental grasses, add texture. You can also create large country-style displays along herbaceous borders, and of course, make beautiful fresh or dried floral bouquets. It pairs perfectly with perennials and roses in natural and/or romantic settings.

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