Mountain Lady's Mantle (Alchemilla monticola)

Mountain Lady's Mantle

Alchemilla monticola

Its cupped leaves catch dewdrops like tiny silver bowls. Low-growing perennial herb; common name: Mountain 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; thrives in cool, filtered light; avoid intense midday sun
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Watering Water when top 2 cm of soil dries out; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; prefers cool temperatures, avoid prolonged heat above 25°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Round to kidney-shaped, lobed, serrated margins; fine hairs repel water droplets
  • Flower: Tiny yellow-green clustered blooms in loose, airy panicles
  • Stem: Slender, upright, slightly hairy stems
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Diluted organic feed once every 4 weeks. Use low-nitrogen feed to promote compact, healthy foliage

Composted banana peel tea:Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to avoid nutrient burn
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms to maintain tidy clumps and encourage self-seeding
  • Trim back faded foliage in late autumn to prepare for winter dormancy
  • Divide overcrowded clumps every 2–3 years in early spring to refresh growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ground cover, rock garden accent, cut foliage for floral arrangements