Great Masterwort Astrantia 'Snow Star' (PBR)
ABOUT
Astrantia 'Snow Star', commonly referred to as Masterwort, is a charming and graceful perennial plant that boasts a unique and captivating appearance. It is characterized by its striking pincushion-like flowers, which consist of a mound of tiny, tightly-clustered florets that are typically a pristine white color, resembling a dusting of snowflakes. These central florets are surrounded by a ruff of delicately pointed bracts that often have subtle hints of green, creating an enchanting star-like effect. The plant's foliage is equally attractive, featuring deeply lobed leaves that are often palm-shaped. The leaves are a vibrant green, providing a lush backdrop for the sophisticated blooms. Masterwort's flowers are perched atop slender, branching stems, which create an airy and elegant display as they sway gently with the breeze. The beauty of Astrantia 'Snow Star' is further enhanced by its long blooming period, as it graces gardens with its ethereal presence from early through to late summer, offering a sustained show of color and texture. Its overall appearance exudes a sense of whimsy and delicate charm that can soften the landscape and add a touch of romance to flower arrangements if cut for indoor enjoyment. Despite its delicate looks, it is a hardy plant that can thrive under a variety of conditions, endearing it to both novice and experienced gardeners alike.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Apiaceae
Synonyms
Great Masterwort, Snow Star Masterwort
Common names
There are no synonyms for Astrantia 'Snow Star' (PBR); its basic scientific name is Astrantia 'Snow Star' (PBR).
ToxicityTo humans
Great masterwort, known botanically as Astrantia 'Snow Star', is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to humans. There are no widely recognized reports of poisoning from the ingestion of this plant. However, as with any plant, individual allergic reactions or sensitivities may occur, and it's generally advisable not to eat ornamental plants due to the risk of gastrointestinal distress or other adverse effects.
To pets
Great masterwort is not commonly recognized as a toxic plant to pets. There is no specific information suggesting that Astrantia 'Snow Star' poses a significant risk of poisoning to animals such as dogs and cats if ingested. As with all plants, it is still best to prevent pets from eating ornamental plants to avoid the possibility of gastrointestinal upset or an unexpected allergic reaction.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
1.5 feet (45 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds delicate texture and unique star-shaped flowers to gardens and landscapes.
- Long Blooming: Blooms for an extended period, typically from late spring to late summer.
- Attracts Wildlife: Flowers provide nectar for bees and butterflies, promoting pollinator health.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it requires less water, suitable for xeriscaping or water-efficient gardens.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, with little need for deadheading or pruning.
- Cold Hardy: Can withstand colder climates, making it suitable for a variety of growing zones.
- Works in Shade: Tolerates partial shade, making it versatile for different garden situations.
- Cut Flower: Makes excellent cut flowers for arrangements due to its lengthy vase life.
- Deer Resistant: Less likely to be eaten by deer, which can help maintain the integrity of a garden.
- Non-Invasive: Does not spread aggressively, making it a responsible choice for maintaining ecological balance.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Astrantia 'Snow Star', also known as Great Masterwort, can be used as a natural dye. The roots and flowers can produce various subtle shades of pink and gray on fabrics when used in traditional dyeing techniques.
- The dried seed heads of the Great Masterwort can be incorporated into floral arrangements, adding texture and interest to the design. They can retain their shape and form for an extended period.
- Great Masterwort can be used in photography, particularly macro photography, as its intricate details and patterns provide a captivating subject for close-up nature shots.
- The plant's flowers can serve as a muse for artists and illustrators, offering a unique form and aesthetic for botanical drawing or painting.
- As a companion plant in gardens, Astrantia 'Snow Star' can be used to create aesthetically pleasing plant combinations with ferns, hostas, and other shade-loving plants.
- Edible parts of Great Masterwort, such as young leaves, can be used in small quantities to add flavor to salads and other culinary dishes.
- Great Masterwort is sometimes used as a natural pest repellent in gardens, as its scent is believed to deter certain insects.
- Its distinctive flower shape can inspire design elements in fields such as architecture, jewelry, and textile patterns. The intricate star-like blooms can influence creative motifs.
- The seeds of Great Masterwort can be saved and used for seed swapping events among gardeners who seek to preserve or share different plant varieties.
- Leaves of the plant can be utilized in craft projects, such as pressing for herbariums or botanical scrapbooking, to capture the natural beauty of the foliage.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Great Masterwort is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Great Masterwort is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Astrantia, commonly known as 'Masterwort', was traditionally believed to have protective properties, thought to ward off evil spirits in medieval times when used in amulets and potions.
- Healing: The name 'Masterwort' hints at its historical use in herbal medicine, symbolizing healing and the alleviation of various ailments due to its roots and leaves being used in remedies.
- Precision: The intricate star-like shape of the 'Snow Star' variety's flowers symbolizes precision and perfection, reflecting its finely detailed form.
- Unity: As Astrantia blooms hold many tiny flowers tightly together in a singular umbel, it symbolizes unity and togetherness, perfect for representing community or familial bonds.
- Mystery: The delicate and complex nature of Masterwort blooms, with their subtle hues and intricate patterns, lends the flower a sense of mystery and enchantment.
- Endurance: Its ability to thrive in many conditions and its long-lasting nature as a cut flower symbolize endurance and longevity.
WaterFor the masterwort, soil moisture should be consistently maintained without making the soil soggy. Generally, watering once a week with about 1-2 gallons of water is adequate, but this can vary depending on climate conditions. During hot, dry periods, water may be required more frequently. It is important to water deeply and directly at the soil level to encourage strong root development. In winter, reduce the watering frequency as the plant requires less moisture during dormancy.
LightThe masterwort thrives in partial shade but can also grow in full sun if it's not too intense. Ideally, place this plant in a location where it will receive morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. These conditions provide the ideal balance between sufficient light for growth and protection from the scorching midday sun.
TemperatureMasterwort is hardy and can survive temperatures as low as -20°F. They prefer cooler conditions and perform best when the temperature stays between 65°F and 75°F. Temperature extremes, particularly prolonged heat above 85°F, can stress the plant, requiring additional care such as mulching and consistent watering.
PruningPruning masterwort involves deadheading spent flowers to promote further blooming and maintain plant appearance. Additionally, it’s beneficial to cut back the foliage in late fall or early winter to prepare the plant for the next growing season. The best time for pruning is after the main flowering period, usually in early summer, and then lightly as needed to remove faded blooms.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMasterwort or Astrantia 'Snow Star' prefers rich, moist but well-draining soil with a good mix of organic matter. An ideal soil mix might include equal parts of garden soil, compost, and leaf mould or peat. This plant thrives in a soil pH that is slightly acid to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingGenerally, Masterwort does not need frequent repotting and can remain in the same pot or location for several years. These perennials may only need repotting once they become overcrowded, typically every 3-4 years, to maintain vigor and flower production.
Humidity & MistingMasterwort enjoys a naturally moist environment but does not require high humidity. It is quite tolerant of average outdoor humidity levels and does not have specific humidity requirements to thrive.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide partial shade and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade with moist, rich soil.
Hardiness zone
4-7 USDA
Life cycleAstrantia 'Snow Star' (PBR), also known as Masterwort, begins its life cycle when seeds are sown in soil, preferably in autumn or winter under cover for an early start. The seedlings emerge, and after the last frost passes, they can be transplanted into their final garden position in spring. As a perennial, Masterwort grows and forms a clump of palmate leaves, with flowering stems rising above the foliage in early to mid-summer, showcasing its distinctive pincushion-like white flowers that attract pollinators. After blooming, if the flowers are not deadheaded, they may produce seeds that can be collected or allowed to self-sow. The plant goes dormant in late autumn, with the foliage dying back as it enters a period of winter rest. In spring, the cycle begins anew with the resurgence of growth from its hardy rootstock.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
For Astrantia 'Snow Star', also known as Masterwort, division is the most popular method of propagation. The best time to carry out this process is either in the spring or early fall, when the plant is not in full bloom and the weather is relatively cool to encourage root development. To propagate by division, you would carefully dig up the existing plant, ensuring to get as much of the root system as possible, and gently tease apart the clump into smaller sections, each with its own roots and shoots. Each section is then replanted into adequately prepared soil, ensuring the crowns are at soil level. Water the new plants well after planting and ensure they are kept moist until they are established. This method allows gardeners to quickly increase their stock of Masterwort and maintain the health of their older plants by rejuvenating them.
