Lady's Mantle (Alchemilla mollis)

Lady's Mantle

Alchemilla mollis

Soft, frothy foliage catches dewdrops like scattered diamonds. Herbaceous perennial; common name: Lady's Mantle.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Partial sun to full shade; tolerates morning direct sun but avoids harsh midday summer rays
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Watering Water when top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; prefers cool temperate conditions and avoids extreme heat above 28°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Round, lobed leaves with soft, fuzzy hairs; edges are scalloped
  • Flower: Tiny, chartreuse, clustered blooms in airy panicles
  • Stem: Slender, green stems with fine pubescence
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed every 4 weeks. Use low-nitrogen feed to prioritize bloom production

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, steep in water, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestations
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms to encourage prolonged flowering into early summer
  • Cut back foliage to ground level in late autumn to prepare for winter dormancy
  • Thin overcrowded clumps in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic to cats

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; may be used in mild herbal preparations

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes comfort and protection in European folk traditions

Usage: Ornamental ground cover, cut flower filler, and mild astringent herbal remedy