Alchemilla Mollis | Ladys Mantle

No garden should be without this beautiful and useful perennial. It has scalloped, bright green leaves which catch droplets of water that look like quicksilver and from June to September, it produces a frothy haze of tiny, chartreuse yellow flowers. It's ideal planted en-masse for groundcover or edging paths, it tolerates a range of adverse conditions including heavy clay and, once established, is drought tolerant. Alchemilla mollis takes its name from the Arabic, meaning little magical one, as in the Middle Ages the water collected from its leaves after a morning dew was said to have healing properties. Growing instructions: In a cold frame or unheated greenhouse, sow the seeds shallowly into trays filled with good quality compost, lightly cover, and keep moist. Germination can take up to three weeks. When the seedlings are large enough to handle, thin out and pot on individually. Once well established, harden off and plant them out in a sunny spot when risk of frost is passed, allowing 30cm between each. Deadhead to avoid self-seeding. Sow: October to November or February to March Flowering: June to September