Masterwort 'Sunningdale Variegated' Astrantia major 'Sunningdale Variegated' (v)

Water

Great Masterwort requires consistent moisture, so it's essential to keep the soil lightly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant once or twice a week with about 16-24 ounces of water, depending on your local climate and the time of year. During hot, dry periods, more frequent watering may be necessary to prevent the soil from drying out completely. Conversely, in cooler, wetter climates or seasons, watering frequency should be reduced. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering and adjust your schedule accordingly.

Light

Great Masterwort thrives best in partial shade to full sun. The ideal spot for the plant would be an area that receives morning sunlight and is shaded during the hottest part of the day to protect its variegated foliage from scorching. Filtered light throughout the day is also suitable and can help the leaves maintain their vibrant colors.

Temperature

Great Masterwort prefers temperatures between 50°F and 75°F, which are typically found in temperate climates. The plant can survive temperatures as low as 30°F for brief periods, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below freezing can be damaging. During the hottest parts of summer, it's crucial to ensure that the plant is not subjected to temperatures exceeding 80°F for an extended period, as this can lead to stress.

Pruning

Pruning Great Masterwort is done to remove spent flower stems and to shape the plant. Deadheading the faded flowers can encourage a second bloom and maintain the plant's appearance. Cut back the entire plant by about a third after flowering has ceased, which typically is in late summer or early fall. Pruning encourages fresh growth and can be repeated every few years to rejuvenate older plants.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Great Masterwort prefers soil that's moist, fertile, and well-draining, with a good amount of organic matter. A blend of loamy garden soil, compost, and some perlite or sand to ensure drainage will serve the Great Masterwort well. The ideal soil pH for the Great Masterwort should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from about 6.0 to 7.0.

Repotting

Great Masterwort doesn't need frequent repotting and can typically be repotted every 2 to 3 years. It's best to repot Great Masterwort plants in the spring just before new growth starts. Ensure the new pot is larger and has good drainage.

Humidity & Misting

Great Masterwort thrives in average to high humidity conditions. It does not have specific humidity requirements but benefits from a consistent level of moisture in the air, mimicking its natural habitat in moist meadows and by streams.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure adequate light, moist soil, and good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade, moist soil, and protect from harsh winds.

• Hardiness zone

  4-7 USDA

Life cycle

The life of Astrantia major 'Sunningdale Variegated', commonly known as Great Masterwort, begins with seed germination in spring, provided the seeds have undergone a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. Seedlings emerge and develop into rosettes of variegated green and cream leaves, with mature plants forming clumps up to 90 cm in height and width. During late spring to midsummer, the plant produces distinctive pincushion-like flowers with bracts that can range in color from pink to white, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After flowering, seeds are produced and dispersed, which can germinate to form new plants if conditions are favorable. In autumn, the foliage may die back, and the plant enters a period of dormancy over winter, with the root system remaining alive underground. The following spring, the plant resumes growth from the rootstock, completing its perennial cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: Astrantia major 'Sunningdale Variegated', commonly known as Masterwort, is often propagated through division, which is a popular and effective method for this perennial plant. The best time for dividing Masterwort is in the spring or early fall when the plant is not in active bloom. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant, making sure to keep a good amount of soil around the roots. Using a sharp spade or knife, slice through the root ball to separate it into smaller sections, each containing several shoots and a portion of the root system. These sections can then be replanted immediately at the same depth they were originally growing, spaced about 18 inches (approximately 45 cm) apart to allow for spreading. Water the newly planted divisions well to help them establish.