The star umbel (Astrantia) has become a trend plant in the garden in recent years due to its particularly attractive flowers that are also attractive to bees. The foundation for the magnificent development of the Astrantia species, which are easy to care for, is laid by selecting a suitable location in the garden.
Which location is optimal for the star umbel?
The ideal star umbel (Astrantia) requires a partially shaded location with nutrient-rich and evenly moist soil. It can thrive in full sun locations as long as it is adequately watered. Calcareous soils are preferred; garden lime can be added to soils that are poor in lime.
Soil moisture as an important location factor
In addition to various cultivated varieties, you can usually purchase three important natural varieties of star umbel:
- Caucasus Star Umbel (Astrantia maxima)
- Astrantia major
- Carinthian Star Umbel (Astrantia carniolica)
All star umbel species generally prefer a semi-shady location, as in addition to nutrient-rich soil, they also need an evenly moist subsoil. With appropriate care in the garden, the star umbel can also thrive in full sun locations if it is watered regularly during dry periods.
Suitable neighbors for the star umbel
The star umbel can be used in the garden as a gentle color accent in a natural perennial bed. Due to the similarly delicate flower structure, you can plant star umbels in the garden next to yarrow, for example. As a companion plant to roses, there is usually a very nice contrast, especially with carefully selected flower colors.
Tip
In nature, the star umbel often occurs in mountainous areas with lime-rich soils. If the soil in your garden is very low in lime, you can easily remedy the situation with a little garden lime (€19.00 on Amazon).