Astrantia Star of Billion

Astrantia ‘Star of Billion’ is an elegant perennial that adds charm to the garden with its delicate, star-shaped white flowers and finely textured foliage.

To ensure the plant remains healthy and attractive throughout the year, it’s important to provide seasonal care suited to its specific needs. This guide explains how to care for Astrantia ‘Star of Billion’ through each season.

Spring

Pruning and Maintenance

In early spring, inspect your Astrantia for any dead or damaged foliage from the previous year and gently prune this away using clean, sharp secateurs.

Feed

Encourage new growth by applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct dosage.

Dividing (if necessary)

If your Astrantia has become crowded or is no longer flowering as freely, spring is the ideal time to divide it. Lift the plant, divide it carefully, and replant the sections into well-prepared soil.

Watering

Gradually increase watering as the weather warms up. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged

Summer

Pruning and Maintenance (if needed)

Remove spent flower heads to encourage continued blooming and maintain the plant's appearance.

Mulching

Apply a 2 to 3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature and suppress weeds. This is especially important in hot and dry summer conditions.

Watering

In the warmer months, the Astrantia requires regular watering. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Deep, infrequent watering is preferable to frequent shallow watering.

Autumn

Pruning and Maintenance

As the growing season comes to an end, trim away any remaining spent flower heads and dead foliage to tidy up the plant.

Protection from frost

Consider providing your Astrantia with frost protection, particularly if it is grown in a pot or planted in an exposed location.

Winter

Pest and disease prevention

Although pests and diseases are less common in winter, it's essential to inspect your Astrantia for any signs of issues and address them promptly.

Protection from frost

If you have potted Astrantia, you can consider bringing them indoors during the coldest winter months to protect them from frost.

Plant SOS

Wilting leaves – A sign of dry soil or heat stress. Water deeply and mulch to retain moisture.

Brown or scorched leaf edges – A sign of too much sun or lack of moisture. Move to partial shade and keep soil evenly moist.

Few or no flowers – A sign of low light or poor nutrition. Ensure morning sun and apply a balanced fertiliser.

Yellowing leaves – A sign of poor drainage or nutrient deficiency. Improve soil drainage and feed lightly.

Small holes in leaves – A sign of slugs and snails. Use a deterrent around the base of the plant such as Slug & Snail Repellent or Slug & Snail Control.

White powdery coating on leaves – A sign of powdery mildew. Improve air circulation and treat with neem oil if needed.