Alchemilla mollis

Alchemilla mollis

Lady’s Mantle

Alchemilla mollis is a decorative clump forming ground cover perennial with attractive sprays of tiny lime green to yellow flowers in mid summer. Leaves have a pretty crinkled edge that catch rain and early morning dew. It grows to a height of 30cm, with a spread of 30cm. It is very hardy and easy to grow. The leaves are also slightly cup-shaped, which allows them to hold rainwater, giving the plant its common name, Lady’s mantle.

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Alchemilla mollis, commonly known as Lady’s mantle, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to Europe and can be found in various habitats such as meadows, woods, and mountain slopes. The plant is known for its attractive foliage, which has a distinctive shape and texture, and is often used in garden landscapes.

The leaves of Alchemilla mollis are the plant’s most striking feature. They are large and deeply lobed, with a velvety texture that gives them a soft, fuzzy appearance. The leaves are also slightly cup-shaped, which allows them to hold rainwater, giving the plant its common name, Lady’s mantle. The leaves are green in color and have serrated edges, and they can grow up to 20cm in diameter.

In addition to its aesthetic qualities, Alchemilla mollis has a long history of medicinal use. The plant was traditionally used to treat a variety of ailments, including diarrhea, menstrual disorders, and wounds. It was also believed to have mystical properties and was used in alchemy and other mystical practices.

Today, Alchemilla mollis is still used in herbal medicine. The leaves of the plant are rich in tannins, which have astringent properties and are used to treat diarrhea and other digestive disorders. The plant also contains flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties and may help to reduce inflammation in the body.

In addition to its medicinal uses, Alchemilla mollis is also commonly used in gardening. The plant is easy to grow and requires little maintenance, making it a popular choice for gardeners of all skill levels. It is also very adaptable and can grow in a variety of soil types and light conditions.

When planting Alchemilla mollis, it is important to choose a location that receives partial shade, as the plant does not do well in full sun. The soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter. Once established, the plant should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells.

Alchemilla mollis is also an excellent choice for use in borders and rock gardens. Its attractive foliage provides a beautiful contrast to other plants, and its low-growing habit makes it an ideal ground cover. It is also a popular choice for use in cut flower arrangements, as its leaves can be used to fill out bouquets and provide a unique texture.

Alchemilla mollis is a versatile plant with many attractive qualities. Its distinctive foliage and medicinal properties make it a popular choice for gardeners and herbalists alike. Whether used in a garden or as a natural remedy, Alchemilla mollis is a beautiful and valuable addition to any landscape.

For more information on Alchemilla mollis check out the following :- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/alchemilla