Great Masterwort Astrantia major Sparkling Stars Series
ABOUT
The Astrantia major Sparkling Stars Series, commonly known as Masterwort, is a striking perennial plant known for its unique and ornamental flowers. The blooms of this plant are composed of clusters of tiny, delicate star-shaped florets which come together to form a rounded, pincushion-like head. These heads are surrounded by a collar of petal-like bracts that give each flower an attractive, layered look. The Sparkling Stars Series is especially notable for the variety of colors its flowers can exhibit. The blooms span a range of hues from pale pinks to deep purples and even to crisp whites—sometimes with subtle hints of green. The flowers have a somewhat ethereal presence, as each star within the clustered head appears to twinkle against the bracts, giving the appearance of a constellation brought down to earth. Below the enchanting flowers, the foliage of the Masterwort adds to its appeal. The leaves are deeply divided and palmate, resembling a hand with outstretched fingers. Their color is typically a lush green, and they can have a slightly glossy appearance, forming an attractive mound that sets off the flowers well. In addition to its visual beauty, the Masterwort is a resilient and hardy plant that complements many garden settings. Its presence brings not only aesthetic enjoyment but also attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it a lively addition to any space dedicated to nurturing local wildlife and biodiversity.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Great Masterwort, Hattie's Pincushion, Melancholy Gentleman
Common names
Astrantia major Sparkling Stars Series
ToxicityTo humans
Great Masterwort, the common name for Astrantia major Sparkling Stars Series, is generally not considered toxic to humans. There is little evidence to suggest that consuming any part of this plant would result in poisoning or adverse health effects.
To pets
Great Masterwort, as Astrantia major Sparkling Stars Series is commonly known, is not typically associated with toxicity in pets. It is not listed as a poisonous plant for pets, and there are no commonly reported symptoms of poisoning or significant consequences from ingestion by animals such as dogs and cats.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Its flowers are a magnet for bees and butterflies, enhancing pollination in the garden.
- Long Blooming: The plant has a prolonged flowering period, offering a long-lasting display of color and interest.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for gardeners seeking low-effort plants.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it can tolerate periods of dryness, suitable for water-wise gardens.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistant: Its foliage and flowers are typically unappealing to deer and rabbits, preventing garden damage.
- Ornamental Value: With its unique pincushion-like flowers and attractive foliage, it adds visual interest to any garden.
- Good Cut Flowers: The blooms make excellent cut flowers, lasting well in vases and floral arrangements.
- Cold Hardy: It can withstand cold temperatures, making it suitable for gardens in colder climates.
- Versatile Planting: Works well in borders, cottage gardens, and as a part of naturalistic or wildflower plantings.
- Soil Adaptability: Can grow in a variety of soil types, though it prefers well-draining soil.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The Masterwort's dried seed heads can be used in winter flower arrangements, offering a unique texture and shape compared to traditional dried flowers.
- The leaves of Masterwort can be pressed and included in botanical art projects for their intricate, palmate design and subtle green hues.
- Masterwort flowers can be used to make natural dyes, imparting subtle colors to textiles or crafting materials.
- Cultivars of the Masterwort can be used in garden design to create a 'living border' due to their clump-forming growth habit and ornamental foliage.
- In culinary arts, while not widely recognized for their flavor, Masterwort flowers can be crystallized and used as edible decorations for cakes and pastries.
- The stems of Masterwort can be hollowed out and used by children as natural pea shooters or for small-scale water play.
- Masterwort can be planted to attract beneficial insects to the garden, such as certain species of bees and butterflies that pollinate other plants.
- The Masterwort's robust nature allows it to be used in erosion control for garden slopes or embankments that require stabilizing plant roots.
- Floral artists can incorporate Masterwort in haute couture botanical jewelry, such as in the creation of unique bracelets or headpieces.
- The plant can be used in photography as a subject to capture the delicate textures and structures of flowers in macro photography.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiMasterwort is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityMasterwort is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Mystery: The Astrantia major, commonly known as Great Masterwort, has a complex structure, evoking a sense of mystery and fascination.
- Protection: In the past, it was believed that the Great Masterwort had the power to ward off evil spirits, symbolizing protection.
- Strength: The robust nature and hardiness of the plant signify strength and resilience.
- Beauty in Complexity: With its intricately shaped flowers, Great Masterwort symbolizes the appreciation of complexity within beauty.
- Perseverance: The plant's ability to thrive in various conditions represents perseverance and adaptability.
WaterGreat Masterwort should be watered regularly, aiming for at least once a week with deeper waterings. It's best to provide the plant with 1 to 1.5 gallons of water each time, depending on the weather and soil moisture levels. During periods of drought or extreme heat, the frequency may need to increase to maintain consistent soil moisture. Overhead watering in the morning is recommended so that the foliage can dry out during the day, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. Ensure the soil is well-draining to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
LightGreat Masterwort thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions. Ideally, it should be placed in a location where it receives morning sunlight and afternoon shade, particularly in hotter climates. Too much intense sun can scorch the leaves, while too much shade can lead to leggy growth and fewer flowers. A spot that offers dappled sunlight throughout the day is perfect for promoting healthy growth and abundant flowering.
TemperatureGreat Masterwort prefers a temperature range from about 50°F to 75°F for optimal growth. It can survive minimum temperatures down to approximately 20°F, making it suitable for many temperate climates. The plant's ideal growing conditions are in cooler weather, and it may struggle in areas where temperatures consistently exceed 85°F.
PruningPruning Great Masterwort should be done to remove spent flower stems and to encourage a second bloom in late summer or early fall. Deadheading, or cutting back the faded flowers to the base of the stem, is usually done after the first flush of blooms. In early spring, trim back any dead or damaged foliage from the previous season, which also promotes healthier and more vigorous growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGreat Masterwort (Astrantia major Sparkling Stars Series) thrives best in a soil mix that is rich in organic matter with good drainage. Composing the soil mix of loam, compost, and leaf mold with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 5.5 to 7.5 will ensure optimal growth.
RepottingGreat Masterwort does not typically require frequent repotting. Repotting it every 2-3 years or when the plant appears to be outgrowing its container is sufficient.
Humidity & MistingGreat Masterwort prefers environments with average to high humidity, however, it is adaptable and does not require any special humidity adjustments when grown in its natural outdoor setting.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure soil is well-draining.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade with moist, fertile soil.
Hardiness zone
4-7 USDA
Life cycleThe Astrantia major Sparkling Stars Series, commonly known as Great Masterwort, begins its life cycle when seeds are sown in spring or summer. Germination occurs under suitable conditions of moisture and temperature, leading to the emergence of seedlings. These seedlings develop into rosettes of palmate leaves, establishing a strong root system. As the plant matures, typically in the second year, it produces flowering stems topped with unique pincushion-like flowers surrounded by bracts, blooming from early to late summer. After pollination by insects, the flowers develop into seed heads, which can self-sow or be collected for propagation. With the onset of cold weather, the plant dies back to its perennial rootstock, overwinters, and then regrows the following spring, repeating its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Astrantia major, commonly known as Great Masterwort, is by division. This usually takes place in the spring or early fall. To propagate by division, gardeners should carefully lift the plant from the soil, making sure to keep a good amount of the root system intact. Using a sharp, clean spade or knife, the clump is then divided into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has at least one growth point or shoot. These sections can be immediately replanted in the garden at the same depth they were growing before, spaced about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow adequate room for growth. It is essential to water the new plants thoroughly after planting to help establish them.
