Smooth lady's mantle
Alchemilla glabra · Rosaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant smooth lady's mantle: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to August, yellow-green flowers
- Mature size
- 30 to 50 cm in height
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (-15°C and below)
- Origin
- Europe, mountainous regions
- Soil type
- Well-drained, fertile, slightly moist
Care
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season to keep the soil slightly moist, especially in summer. In winter, reduce watering considerably. Avoid complete drying out and excess water which would promote rot.
Light Exposure
Place your lady's mantle in a sunny to partially shaded location. It appreciates bright areas but tolerates partially shaded spots well. It adapts better to light shade in very hot regions.
Soil
Prepare rich, well-drained and slightly fertile soil. Lady's mantle prefers neutral to slightly acidic pH. Enrich the soil with well-decomposed compost when planting to encourage good establishment.
Pruning
Trim faded stems and damaged leaves regularly to encourage prolonged flowering. In autumn, cut the foliage close to the ground before winter. This plant naturally regrows in spring without drastic pruning.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring when vegetation starts. A one-time application in summer can extend flowering. Prefer moderate applications: excessive nitrogen would promote foliage at the expense of flowers.
Diseases and Pests
Lady's mantle is generally very resistant to diseases. Watch for powdery mildew in case of excessive humidity and poor air circulation. Pests remain rare. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent problems.
Did you know?
The name "Alchemilla" evokes medieval alchemy: the dewdrops that pearl on the velvety leaves were once considered magical by alchemists who collected them for their supposedly miraculous elixirs. In reality, these drops result from guttation, a natural process of water exudation by the plant.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.