Growing Alchemilla mollis (Lady’s Mantle) in the Garden

Alchemilla mollis, commonly known as Lady’s Mantle, is a hardy and elegant perennial with scalloped, velvety foliage and airy sprays of lime-green flowers.

A staple in cottage gardens and informal borders, it thrives in a variety of conditions, making it a versatile and low-maintenance choice for gardeners.

You should be aware that the plant self-seeds readily, so you will need to keep an eye on it. Often, you will find that it lodges itself alongside paths or in cracks between paving, which can be effective in softening the hard landscaping.

Like its dwarf counterpart (Alchemilla erythropoda), Lady’s Mantle is especially admired for how dew and raindrops collect on its leaves, creating a shimmering effect that adds visual interest.

This plant is ideal for softening edges, filling gaps in borders, or pairing with other classic perennials such as roses, delphiniums, or catmint.

Alchemilla mollis,
Alchemilla mollis, Viburnum sp, Amelanchier ‘Autumn Brilliance’, Pinus sylvestris by cultivar413 is licensed under CC BY 2.0

All about Alchemilla mollis

Alchemilla mollis is native to Eastern Europe and thrives in temperate climates. Its lovely mound-forming habit makes it a popular choice for garden designs that prioritise natural beauty and texture.

The leaves of the plant are covered in fine hairs, which is why the leaves catch water droplets, keeping them intact to create an attractive feature after rain or heavy dew.

This tough perennial is not only decorative but also an excellent pollinator plant, attracting bees and butterflies to the garden.

Key facts

  • Scientific name and any synonyms: Alchemilla mollis
  • Meaning of scientific plant name: “Alchemilla” is derived from “alchemy,” reflecting the fascination with how water beads on the leaves. “Mollis” means “soft,” referring to the plant’s velvety foliage.
  • Common names: Lady’s Mantle
  • Plant family: Rosaceae
  • Place of origin of the plant: Eastern Europe and the Caucasus
  • Type of plant: Herbaceous perennial
  • Size: Typically 18–24 inches (45–60 cm) tall and wide
  • Foliage – Description of foliage: Large, soft, scalloped leaves with a velvety texture; forms a low, dense mound.
  • Flower – Description of flower and flowering time: Small, lime-green to yellow flowers in airy clusters; blooms from late spring to mid-summer.
  • Fruit – Description of fruit (if any) and fruiting time: Produces small, inconspicuous dry seeds after flowering.
  • Toxicity: Non-toxic to pets and humans (source: ASPCA).
Alchemilla Mollis
Alchemilla Mollis by judy dean is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Care requirements

Care AspectDetails
Light requirements:Partial shade to full sun; tolerates full shade but flowers best in sunnier conditions.
Water and humidity requirements:Moderate water needs; prefers consistently moist soil but is drought-tolerant once established.
Temperature requirements:Hardy in USDA zones 4–7 and UK zones H7–H5; tolerates temperatures from -30°F to 85°F (-34°C to 29°C).
Soil requirements:Prefers fertile, well-drained soil; tolerates neutral to slightly acidic pH.
Feeding requirements:Minimal feeding; a light application of compost in spring is sufficient.
Propagation:Propagate by division in spring or autumn; self-seeds freely in the garden.
Pruning:Remove spent flowers to prevent excessive self-seeding; cut back foliage in late autumn.
Pests and diseases:Generally pest-resistant; may occasionally suffer from aphids or mildew in humid conditions.
Alchemilla mollis Thriller by Photo by David J. Stang is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Best cultivars

  1. ‘Thriller’ – A larger variety with bright lime-green flowers and robust growth; grows to 24 inches (60 cm).
  2. ‘Auslese’ – Compact and floriferous, with smaller leaves and a neat growth habit; grows to 18 inches (45 cm).
  3. ‘Robustica’ – Known for its particularly large foliage and dense clumps; ideal for filling large gaps in borders.
  4. ‘Gold Strike’ – Vigorous with golden-green flowers that stand out in mixed plantings; grows to 20 inches (50 cm).
  5. ‘Irish Silk’ – Features glossy, scalloped leaves and pale yellow flowers; reaches 18 inches (45 cm).

Propagation

Alchemilla mollis is easily propagated by division or seeds. For division, dig up mature plants in early spring or autumn, and separate the clumps into smaller sections, each with healthy roots and foliage. Replant the divisions in well-prepared soil, spacing them about 18 inches (45 cm) apart.

The plant also self-seeds freely, often producing seedlings in nearby areas of the garden. These can be transplanted to desired locations in early spring. If growing from seeds, scatter them on the soil surface in autumn or spring and keep the area moist until germination occurs.

Alchemilla mollis
Alchemilla mollis ” by Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Pests and diseases

Lady’s Mantle is a hardy and disease-resistant plant but may encounter minor issues:

  1. Aphids – These sap-sucking insects can appear on flower stalks. Remove them by hand or use a strong jet of water or insecticidal soap.
  2. Powdery Mildew – A white powdery coating may develop on leaves in humid or overcrowded conditions. Improve airflow and avoid overhead watering to minimise this issue.
  3. Crown Rot – In poorly drained soil, the crown may rot. To prevent this, ensure well-drained soil and avoid waterlogging.

By planting Lady’s Mantle in well-drained soil and providing adequate airflow, most problems can be avoided.

Leave a Comment