Masterwort 'Shaggy'

Astrantia major 'Shaggy' (also known as 'Margery Fish') is a unique and captivating perennial that is a true favourite for shaded borders in the UK. This cultivar is distinguished by its exceptionally large, creamy-white flower heads, where the surrounding bracts are unusually long and tipped with green, giving the bloom its namesake 'shaggy' appearance. The flowers look like delicate, intricate pincushions and are held on wiry stems above a mound of deeply lobed, mid-green leaves. It is a long-flowering plant and is fully hardy, performing best in a moist, fertile soil in partial shade, though it can tolerate sun if the soil is kept damp. It is a perfect choice for woodland gardens, cottage borders, or even as a sophisticated cut flower. Regular deadheading will encourage the plant to continue blooming throughout the summer. It is a reliable and low-maintenance perennial that adds a touch of understated elegance to any garden setting, particularly effective when planted in groups.

Sun: Partial shade.

Soil: Moist but well-drained, fertile loam.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul, Aug.