Astrantia 'Burgundy Manor' Astrantia 'Burgundy Manor'
ABOUT
'Bugundy Manor' produces large, deep red flowers with spiky centres like a pincushion. A strong variety which establishes quickly and flowers repeatedly.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Apiaceae.
Synonyms
Masterwort, Great Masterwort, Hattie's Pincushion, Melancholy Gentleman, Burgundy Manor Masterwort.
Common names
Astrantia 'Burgundy Manor'
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Burgundy
Height
2 feet [60 cm]
Spread
2 feet [60 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Flowers: Astrantia 'Burgundy Manor' is known for its unique, pincushion-like burgundy flowers that add a touch of elegance to any garden.
- Long Blooming Period: The plant has a long flowering season, providing color and interest from early summer to early autumn.
- Wildlife Friendly: It attracts beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, contributing to biodiversity and pollination in the garden.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant is capable of growing in partial shade, making it versatile for various garden designs and locations where sunlight is limited.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, Astrantia 'Burgundy Manor' is relatively drought-tolerant, requiring less frequent watering compared to other garden plants.
- Low Maintenance: It is considered low maintenance, with minimal requirements for feeding and pruning.
- Cutting Garden Plant: The flowers are excellent for cutting and using in floral arrangements, holding their shape and color well when cut.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistant: The plant is generally resistant to browsing by deer and rabbits, which can be advantageous in areas where these animals are a problem.
- Rustic Charm: The plant adds an old-world charm to the garden, fitting well in cottage garden designs and informal borders.
- Companion Planting: Its foliage and flower form complement many other perennials, making it a good candidate for mixed borders and beds.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Astrantia can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, with 'Burgundy Manor' potentially producing shades of pink or purple depending on the mordant used.
- The dried seed heads of Astrantia can be incorporated into potpourri mixes to add a unique texture and visual interest.
- As a photography subject, the intricate details and deep burgundy color of Astrantia 'Burgundy Manor' are ideal for macro photography enthusiasts.
- The sturdy stems and long-lasting flowers of Astrantia make it a popular choice for creating botanical jewelry, such as resin pendants or earrings.
- Gardeners can plant Astrantia amongst vegetables as a companion plant to add diversity and potentially deter certain pests with its aroma.
- Astrantia is sometimes used in educational settings to teach students about plant structure and pollination, as it has a unique flower form.
- The unusual star-shaped flowers of 'Burgundy Manor' can serve as an inspiration for artists and designers, influencing patterns in textiles or wallpaper.
- The flowers can be used in floral art, such as ikebana, where their form and color can create a dramatic focal point in the arrangements.
- Astrantia can be used in crafts, like pressed flower projects, due to its distinctive and resilient blooms that maintain their shape when dried.
- In culinary presentations, the blooms can be used as an edible garnish for desserts and cocktails, adding a touch of elegance and color, although caution should be exercised as not all flowers of this variety are confirmed to be edible.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Masterwort is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Masterwort is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Mystery and Intrigue: The Astrantia 'Burgundy Manor', commonly known as Masterwort, has a distinctive appearance, often symbolizing enigmatic beauty and a sense of wonder due to its unique star-shaped flowers and captivating deep burgundy color.
- Protection: Masterwort was traditionally believed to have medicinal properties, which contributes to its association with protection and the warding off of negative energies or ailments.
- Perseverance and Longevity: Given its hardy nature and ability to thrive in various conditions, Masterwort often represents determination, the ability to persevere through challenges, and long-lasting vitality.
- Harmony: The radial symmetry of Masterwort blooms suggests balance and harmony, making it a symbol of unity and peaceful coexistence.
WaterMasterwort prefers consistently moist soil, so it should be watered thoroughly once the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Depending on weather conditions, this might mean watering approximately once a week. It is essential to ensure that the plant is not left in waterlogged soil, so good drainage is important. In terms of the amount, applying about 1-2 gallons of water per plant should be sufficient to keep the soil moist but not soggy. During particularly dry spells, more frequent watering may be necessary.
LightMasterwort thrives best in partial shade to full sun. The perfect spot for this plant would be an area that receives morning sunlight and is shaded in the afternoon, as it appreciates shelter from the intense heat. However, it can still perform well in a sunnier spot if adequate moisture is maintained.
TemperatureMasterwort can handle a range of temperatures and is quite cold hardy. For optimal growth, it prefers temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about -20 degrees Fahrenheit, but the maximum temperature should not exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit for extended periods to prevent stress on the plant.
PruningMasterwort should be pruned to remove spent flower stems and to encourage a second flush of blooms. This can be done after the first flowering has finished, usually in midsummer. Additionally, pruning back the foliage in late fall or early spring can help maintain a tidy appearance and promote healthy growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Great Masterwort (Astrantia 'Burgundy Manor') thrives in a rich, loamy soil mix with good drainage. Aim for a soil pH between 5.5 and 7.5. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to nourish the plant.
RepottingGreat Masterwort does not need frequent repotting and can thrive in the same pot for several years. Generally, repotting every 3-4 years, or when the plant outgrows its current container, is adequate.
Humidity & MistingThe Great Masterwort prefers moderate humidity levels. It will thrive outdoors in the natural humidity or indoors where the environment is not excessively dry. Avoid placing it near heating vents or air conditioners which can reduce humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Great Masterwort in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Choose partial shade, sheltered from strong winds, and keep soil moist.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleMasterwort 'Burgundy Manor' begins its life as a seed, which, when sown in fertile, moist soil and with adequate light, will germinate within a few weeks. Upon sprouting, the seedlings develop into young plants with a basal rosette of leaves and, given the right conditions, these will gradually mature over the course of several months. During the growth phase, the plant forms a sturdy stem and prepares for the flowering stage, which typically occurs in late spring to early summer. The flowers of 'Burgundy Manor' are notable for their pincushion-like appearance, with a burgundy hue that attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers produce seed heads, which mature by late summer and can be collected for propagation or left to self-seed in the garden. Eventually, as autumn approaches, the plant begins to die back, entering dormancy over winter, and will re-emerge in the following spring to repeat the life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Astrantia 'Burgundy Manor', commonly known as masterwort, is most commonly propagated by division. The ideal time to propagate masterwort by division is in the early spring or fall when the plant is not actively flowering. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant, making sure to keep a large amount of soil around the roots to protect them. Using a sharp spade or knife, divide the root clump into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has at least one growth bud or shoot and a portion of the root system. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were previously growing, spacing them about 18 inches (45 centimeters) apart to provide adequate room for growth. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them in their new location. This method allows for quick increase of stock and helps rejuvenate older clumps that may have become woody or less vigorous.
