Alchemilla Flowers
Name : Alchemilla Flowers
Latin Name : Genus: Alchemilla (Alchemilla mollisis)
Alchemilla Description
Alchemilla is a genus of herbaceous perennial plants in the Rose family (Rosaceae). There are about 300 species, most of which are native to cool, temperate and sub-arctic regions of Europe and Asia. Some species of Alchemilla are also found in the mountains of Africa, North America and South America.
Alchemilla flowers are also known as Lady’s Mantle, Lion's Foot, Bear's Foot, Nine Hooks and Dew Cup.
Alchemilla flowers are small, have no petals and appear in clusters above the foliage in late spring and summer. The flowers of the Alchemilla are so heavy that the stems bend under their weight. The soft-looking foliage of Alchemilla has a bluish cast. Some Alchemilla species can grow to a height of about 24 inches and most species bloom from late spring until early fall.
Lady's Mantle flower is fairly easy to grow. This plant doesn't require any special soil or nutrients and will do well in most shady garden areas in average, well drained soil. Alchemilla has a tendency to grow wild easily when it drops its many seeds, so keep it deadheaded if you do not want it to overgrow.
The root of Alchemilla is edible, as are the leaves, which sheep and cattle are said to relish. The entire plant is usually harvested in midsummer.
All species of Alchemilla prefer dappled sun or shade and well-draining soil. Alchemilla flowers can tolerate some sun, but they prefer partial shade. You should add a little fertilizer or compost at the bottom after digging a hole large enough for your plant. Alchemilla should be planted about 18 inches apart to allow room for growth. They like an application of mulch to keep them cool and moist. Propagation is easy, Lady's Mantle can be started from root divisions or you can dig up the new plants that will undoubtedly pop up throughout your garden. Periodic division and thinning out is recommended to avoid messy looking or too numerous plants. Lady's Mantle thrives in areas with cool summers. In areas where the summers get too hot, plant your Lady’s Mantle in a shaded location. When the temperature rises, make sure that your Alchemilla is well watered otherwise it may start drooping, as it doesn't like to dry out. Another problem that might affect the plant’s growth is a type of yellow fungus that sometimes attacks the plant, causing the leaf stalk to become abnormally long. The leaf blade will be smaller and paler than usual in this case. Fungal diseases can usually be cured by a light spray of organic sulfur.
Alchemilla is often grown as a ground cover and is especially valued for the leaves in wet weather, as the water beads and sparkles on the leaves.
Alchemilla mollis is a common garden variety and many nurseries carry this flower. Other species to choose from include A. ellenbeckii, A. alpina and A. erythropoda.Alchemilla flowers are green to bright chartreuse in colour; while the foliage has a bluish tinge. When in blossom the Alchemilla gives a nice yellow glow over the garden.
Alchemilla is a good cut flower which is perfect for all occasions. Use this flower to add an over all sunny feel to a bouquet or table centrepiece. The bluish foliage further beautifies the appearance of an arrangement, adding texture and charm to the ambience. Alchemilla flowers have a long vase life. Alchemilla can last for two weeks in water. Individual flowers stay fresh for 5-7 days each.
Alchemilla Meaning
The Alchemilla flower has been named after the Virgin Mary's cloak because of its scalloped leaves.
Alchemilla Mythology
The Alchemilla has an interesting history associated to it. Centuries ago, the beads of water that collect on Alchemilla leaves were considered by alchemists to be the purest form of water. The alchemists utilised this water in their quest to turn base metal into gold, hence the flower derives the name "Alchemilla".
Alchemilla is used medicinally for bruises and wound healing.
There are two conflicting stories as to the use Alchemilla in medicine. One suggests that Lady’s Mantle has been used for centuries as a herbal remedy. While according to other accounts it has never been used medicinally, but has been confused with two species that have a history of medicinal use: A. alpina (Alpine lady's mantle) and A. xanthoclora.
