How to Grow Alchemilla mollis Plants in your Garden

Alchemilla mollis, commonly known as Lady's Mantle, is an ornamental European garden perennial and member of the Rosaceae family (roses).

It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8, and is considered very hardy in the UK and Europe.

Alchemilla mollis, Viburnum sp photograph by K M.

Lady's Mantle grows in dense clump mounds, typically 12 to 16 inches (30 to 40 cm) in height with a two foot (60 cm) spread.

Loose clusters of tiny, star-shaped chartreuse blooms appear in June, but it is the foliage that is considered its most striking feature.

Lady's Mantle produces soft, apple-green, scallop-edged and serrated leaves.

Alchemilla mollis leaves and flower buds, photograph by manuel m. v.; CC.

The velvety-hairs on the leaves tend to hold droplets of water, which is quite eye-catching after a spring or summer rain.

This feature makes them a welcome planting along garden paths and walkways, as border fronts and ground covers, in cottage gardens, or in large containers.

Companion plants include bright yellow Day lilies, Iris, Fern trees, Lupine, Purple Cranesbill, and Peonies. They pair well also with pink shrub roses and the burgundy and purple foliage of some Salvia plants

Alchemilla mollis plant in bloom, photograph by Leonora (Ellie) Enking; CC.

Gardener's HQ Guide to Growing Garden Lady's mantle

Lady's Mantle is easy to grow, preferring full sun to partial shade.

This plant prefers medium moist, normal, sandy or clay soils that are well drained.

Seeds may be sown in garden beds in the fall or in early spring so long as the risk of frost has gone by.

As an alternative, they may also be started indoors allowing enough time for seedlings to appear before they can be transplanted following the last chance of frost. Six to eight weeks is usually sufficient.

When they reach about four inches (10 cm) in height, transplant them outdoors about a foot apart in areas that need filler.

While they self-seed quite freely and need little coaxing to propagate, gardeners should keep attention on them so they don't overtake other areas of the garden where they are not wanted.

Removing spent Alchemilla mollis flowers will help control self-seeding and can encourage new blooms later in the season.

Soil Preparation for planting Alchemilla mollis

To prepare the soil for planting Alchemilla mollis, it's important to consider a few factors. The ideal soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0. Good drainage is crucial, so make sure the soil allows excess water to escape easily.

Enhance the soil's quality by adding organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure. This improves nutrient content and promotes healthy growth. If the soil lacks specific nutrients, you can use soil amendments or fertilizers based on a soil test. Just remember to follow the recommended instructions for application.

With proper soil preparation, you'll create an optimal environment for your Alchemilla mollis plants. This will help them thrive and flourish in your garden.

Lady's Mantle plant by Leonora (Ellie) Enking; CC.

Summary

Grow Alchemilla mollis, or Lady's Mantle, in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. This European perennial thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8. Start seeds indoors or sow them in fall or early spring, ensuring the risk of frost has passed.

Transplant seedlings outdoors, spacing them about a foot apart. Control self-seeding by removing spent flowers. The plant's soft, scallop-edged leaves hold droplets of water, adding visual appeal after rainfall. Consider companion plants like Daylilies, Fern trees, or Purple Cranesbill for beautiful garden combinations.

I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Alchemilla mollis. You may also enjoy the following Gardener's HQ growing guides: How to grow Rosa multiflora and Waldsteinia plants.