Also known as Lady's Mantle · 146 saves
Alchemilla
Alchemilla, the genus most gardeners know as lady's mantle. We track 4 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 4 most-saved Alchemilla varieties
2 species of Alchemilla
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Alchemilla in Sow
Save the Alchemilla you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Alchemilla
Whats common across all Alchemilla varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 4 most-grown of them.
The Alchemilla year
- DivideMarch, April, September and October100% of varieties
Divide established clumps in early spring or autumn to propagate.
- Spring CleanupMarch and April100% of varieties
Cut back old foliage hard to the base just as new growth begins to emerge.
- FertilizeApril50% of varieties
Apply a balanced, slow-release organic fertilizer or compost mulch around the base.
- PruneJuly50% of varieties
Cut back spent flower stalks and old foliage to tidy the mound
- DeadheadJuly50% of varieties
Shear off spent flowers to prevent aggressive self-seeding
Do
- Cut the foliage and spent flower stems hard to the base in late winter or early spring to refresh the mound.
- Apply a balanced, slow-release organic fertilizer or compost mulch around the base in early spring.
- Provide supplemental watering during dry spells to prevent leaf scorch.
- Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist 🌱
- Apply organic mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature
Avoid
- Don’t let soil dry out completely
- Do not plant in poorly drained or waterlogged winter soils, which can cause root rot.
- Avoid cutting back into old, leafless woody stems at the base of the plant.
- Do not apply excessive high-nitrogen fertilizers, which promote weak, floppy foliage.
What goes wrong with Alchemilla
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Clusters of small insects on new growth and sticky honeydew. | Wash off with a strong spray of water or apply insecticidal soap if infestations persist. |
| Spider mites | Fine webbing and stippling on leaves during dry periods. | Increase humidity around the plant and spray with a sharp stream of water or insecticidal soap. |
| Slugs | Irregular holes in foliage | Use organic slug bait or handpick at night |
| Powdery mildew | White, powdery coating on leaf surfaces in humid, crowded conditions. | Space plants properly to improve airflow and remove affected foliage. |
| Powdery Mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply neem oil |
| Root rot | Wilting, yellowing leaves and mushy, black roots in wet soil. | Improve soil drainage and avoid overwatering, especially in heavy clay. |
Making more Alchemilla
Division
- Dig up established clumps in early spring or autumn using a sharp spade.
- Gently pry the root crown apart into smaller sections, ensuring each has viable buds and roots.
- Replant the divisions immediately at the same depth as the original plant.
- Water thoroughly and keep the soil moist until new growth is established.
Cuttings
- Take softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer
- Dip cut ends in rooting hormone
- Insert into moist, well-draining soil or propagation medium
- Keep humid and place in indirect light for 6 weeks
Alchemilla questions
How many types of Alchemilla are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 4 distinct Alchemilla varieties. The most popular — ranked by 146 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Alchemilla grow in?
Across its varieties, Alchemilla covers USDA Zones 4–8. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Alchemilla bloom?
Most Alchemilla varieties bloom in late spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Alchemilla should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.