Lady's-mantle
Alchemilla mollis · Lady's MantleUSDA | Grow Zone
3-7Outdoors all year in zones 3 to 7. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant.
- Light
- Partial shade to full sun
- Water
- Consistently moist soil
- Humidity
- 40% to 60%
- Temperature
- 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 12-24 in tall, 18-24 in wide
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets and children
Alchemilla mollis, commonly known as Lady's-mantle, is a charming perennial native to Europe. Its unique, scalloped leaves and delicate flowers make it a favorite in gardens, valued for its ability to thrive in partial shade and its low-maintenance nature.
Ask Vesper about Lady's-mantle
Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 12-24 in tall, 18-24 in wide
- Plant apart
- 18-24 in
- Frost
- Half hardy: light frost only
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Alchemilla mollis prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate some drying between waterings.
Water deeply once a week during the growing season, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before the next watering. In hot summer months, increase frequency to twice a week. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering can cause wilting and browning leaf edges.
Light
This plant thrives in partial shade to full sun, ideally receiving 4 to 6 hours of sunlight daily.
It prefers morning sun with afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates, to prevent leaf scorch. It can tolerate full shade but may produce fewer flowers and have a leggier appearance.
Soil
Alchemilla mollis prefers well-draining, rich, loamy soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
A mix of garden soil, compost, and peat moss is recommended to ensure good drainage and nutrient retention. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture.
Humidity
This plant enjoys moderate humidity levels, ideally between 40% and 60%.
To increase humidity, mist the leaves regularly or place a humidifier nearby. Signs of low humidity include browning leaf tips and edges, while excessive humidity can lead to fungal issues.
Temperature
Alchemilla mollis thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C) and is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 7.
It can tolerate light frost but should be protected from extreme heat. In winter, it can withstand temperatures as low as -30°F (-34°C).
Fertilizing
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 in early spring.
Apply once every 6 to 8 weeks during the growing season. Signs of nutrient deficiency include stunted growth and yellowing leaves, indicating a need for fertilizer.
Pruning
Prune Alchemilla mollis in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Remove any dead or damaged leaves and spent flowers to encourage bushier growth. Use sharp, clean pruning shears for best results. Deadheading can be done throughout the flowering season to promote additional blooms.
Repotting
Repot every 2 to 3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Choose a pot that is 1 to 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes and stunted growth. Carefully remove the plant from its pot, loosen the roots, and place it in fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Propagation can be done through division or seeds.
For division, carefully dig up the plant in early spring or fall, and separate the clumps into smaller sections, ensuring each has roots. Replant immediately. For seeds, collect them in late summer, sow them in a seed tray, and keep them moist until germination, which usually occurs in 2 to 4 weeks.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Often caused by over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Ensure proper drainage and adjust watering frequency. Consider applying a balanced fertilizer.
Root rot
Why it happens
Excess moisture in the soil, often due to poor drainage.
How to fix it
Improve drainage by amending the soil and reduce watering frequency.
Leaf spots
Why it happens
Fungal infections due to high humidity and poor air circulation.
How to fix it
Ensure adequate spacing between plants and avoid overhead watering. Treat with a fungicide if necessary.
Wilting
Why it happens
Under-watering or extreme heat exposure.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture and water thoroughly. Provide shade during the hottest part of the day.
Leggy growth
Why it happens
Insufficient light conditions.
How to fix it
Move the plant to a location with more sunlight, ideally morning sun with some afternoon shade.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, remove any dead foliage and apply a balanced fertilizer. This is also the best time for propagation by division.
Summer
During summer, ensure consistent moisture and provide afternoon shade in hot climates. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
Fall
In fall, cut back the plant after the first frost to tidy up the garden. Mulch around the base to protect roots during winter.
Winter
In winter, protect the plant from extreme cold by covering it with mulch. Avoid excessive watering as the plant enters dormancy.
Toxicity & Safety
Alchemilla mollis is non-toxic to pets and children, making it a safe choice for gardens. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
Good to know
How often should I water my Alchemilla mollis?
Water your Lady's-mantle deeply once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out. In hot weather, increase to twice a week.
What type of soil is best for Alchemilla mollis?
This plant thrives in well-draining, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of garden soil, compost, and peat moss works well.
Can I grow Alchemilla mollis in full sun?
Yes, it can tolerate full sun but prefers partial shade, especially in hotter climates, to prevent leaf scorch.
When should I prune my Lady's-mantle?
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove dead leaves and spent flowers to encourage bushier growth.
Is Alchemilla mollis toxic to pets?
No, Lady's-mantle is non-toxic to both pets and children, making it a safe addition to your garden.
How do I propagate Alchemilla mollis?
You can propagate by division in early spring or fall, or by collecting and sowing seeds in a seed tray.
What are the signs of nutrient deficiency in Alchemilla mollis?
Signs include stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Regular fertilization can help prevent these issues.
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