Astrantia

Astrantia major · aka masterwort, great masterwort, Hattie's pincushion

Astrantia, or masterwort, produces intricate pincushion heads ringed by a papery collar of pointed bracts, giving each bloom the look of a tiny, star-like nosegay. Florists love it for the delicate texture and soft, painterly colours it lends to garden-style bouquets and buttonholes. It reads beautifully at close range and photographs like fine detail, making it a wedding favourite. It is long-lasting fresh and dries gracefully, extending its use into everlasting work.

At a glance

Family	Apiaceae
Origin	Central and eastern Europe (mountain meadows)
Peak season	June, July, August
Availability	May, June, July, August, September, October
Stem length	30–60 cm
Vase life	7–10 days
Colors	white, pink, red, burgundy, green
Price tier	mid

Conditioning

Recut stems and remove any lower leaves before conditioning in cool, clean water with flower food. Let stems hydrate for several hours in a cool place before arranging. Astrantia is thirsty, so keep water levels topped up and avoid warm, dry rooms.

Care in the vase