Overview

Lady's Mantle (Alchemilla) has small clusters of yellow-green flowers appearing from June to August over light green leaves covered with hairs. The plant got its name from the scallop-shaped leaves that resembled a woman's cloak, or mantelet, in the 1700s. In medieval times, all parts of the herb were collected while it was blooming and were boiled to create an infusion to stop the bleeding of wounds. Lady's Mantle is a low-growing perennial, cold hardy to USDA hardiness zones 3 through 8, and can be grown successfully in Ohio, which encompasses zones 5 and 6.

Step 1

Choose a well-drained, sunny to partial shade location to plant Lady's Mantle. Planted in full sun, Lady's Mantle may need more frequent watering than in a shady location, especially during Ohio's hot summer months. Reaching about 12 inches in height and 24 inches wide, this perennial can be used as border.

Step 2

Dig the hole twice as wide and deep as the container of Lady's Mantle. The deeper and wider hole will loosen the soil for easier root penetration.

Step 3

Partially backfill the hole so the plant will rest with the soil surface of the potted plant level with the ground.

Step 4

Place the plant in the center of the hole, backfill with the dirt removed from the hole, and then gently press the soil down around the plant. Mulch is not needed, but 1 to 2 inches of wood chips or compost may be applied around the plant, about 2 inches from the stem.

Step 5

Water Lady's Mantle after planting and every seven to 10 days if there is no rainfall. Watch for wilting leaves when planted in the sun, which can be an indication of dry soil. During the hotter, summer months in Ohio, Lady's mantle may need more frequent watering.

Step 6

Pinch off blooms after they fade to prevent seed production. Faded blooms that remain will self-seed, producing new sprouts the following spring.

Step 7

Dig up the root ball every five to 10 years and divide it by pulling or cutting apart the clump. If replanting in the same area, space the divided clumps 24 inches apart.