Lady's mantle (Alchemilla semilunaris)
Care, watering, light and tips for Lady's mantle on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Rosaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–30 °C
About Lady's mantle
Alchemilla semilunaris, also known as 'månemarikåpe' (moon lady's mantle), is a small perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Rosaceae family. It is characterized by its grayish-green lobed leaves, often with a serrated margin and a shape reminiscent of a half-moon. It is ideal for garden borders, rockeries, or as ground cover in semi-shaded areas, providing a delicate texture and attractive foliage.
Native range
Mountainous regions of Central and Southern Europe
Care tips
It prefers a location in partial shade or dappled shade, as direct midday sun can scorch its leaves. Watering should be regular, keeping the substrate moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry periods. It requires well-drained soil, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic to neutral. A common mistake is planting it in full sun, which can lead to poor development and scorched leaves.
How to save a dying Lady's mantle
- Warning signs
- Wilted, yellowing leaves or dry brown spots. Stunted growth.
- First aid
- Move to partial shade, water moderately if soil is dry, check drainage.
- What kills it
- Excessive direct sun and extreme dryness, or waterlogging that rots roots.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted and there's green tissue. Act quickly.