Alchemilla
Perennial

USDA Zones: 3 - 8
Light: sun in Zones 3 to 5 and Pacific Northwest; partial shade elsewhere
Height:  1 to 2 feet
Width:  12 to 18 inches
Flower Colors: flowers are a pretty spring green; leaves are silvery gray
Bloom Time: late spring
Special Features:
Attractive Foliage
CutFlowers
Deer Resistant
Easy to Grow
Flowers

With lady's-mantle, it's a tie as to whether the foliage or the flowers are prettier. Gray-green, velvety rounded leaves have wavy edges that catch the dew, creating sparking little diamonds in the morning light. But in midsummer, frothy sprays of spring-green flowers bloom atop the leaves for an equally attractive effect. It's a great edging plant for the front of the bed or border, or planted along a path or walk.

Lady's-mantle is ideal in the flower bed or border and will often reseed in ideal conditions. It's also nice as an edging plant and its flowers can be used in arrangements.

Care
Needs rich, moist, but well-drained soil. It will tolerate drier conditions in deeper shade. Fertilize by working in compost two or three times during the season or by applying a slow-release fertilizer, following label directions exactly. Trim spent blooms to encourage a second flush of bloom and to prevent excessive reseeding. Cut back plant by half if foliage gets ratty to promote fresh growth.

Planting
Plant established plants in spring or fall, working plenty of compost into the soil. Mulch to conserve moisture.

Pests and Diseases
Fungal diseases are a problem, especially in the South. Provide excellent drainage and water only the soil, not the foliage.