Origin and Common Names:
Alchemilla filicaulis Buser ssp. vestita (Buser) M.E. Bradshaw is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to the central-southern Alps in Europe and has various common names including Alpine lady's mantle, Woolly lady's mantle, and Alpine lady's-mantle.
Appearance:
Alchemilla filicaulis ssp. vestita is a perennial plant that grows up to 10-20 cm tall. It has dense clumps of basal leaves that are lobed and hairy. Its leaves range from light green to grey-green and have a velvet-like texture. The plant produces small yellowish-green flowers in clusters in early summer. These flowers are followed by drooping clusters of brownish-green fruit.
Uses:
Alchemilla filicaulis ssp. vestita has a long history of medicinal and culinary uses. It is believed to have astringent properties that can help with skin irritations, digestive problems, and heavy menstrual bleeding. Additionally, the plant's leaves can be used to make a tea that is said to be a remedy for colds and flus.
In traditional European cuisine, the young leaves of Alchemilla filicaulis ssp. vestita were used raw in salads or cooked as a vegetable. The leaves were also used to add flavor to soups and stews.
Today, the plant is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and flowers. It is often used in rock gardens, border fronts, and edgings for paths.
Light Requirements
Alchemilla filicaulis Buser ssp. vestita (Buser) M.E. Bradshaw, commonly known as Alchemilla, requires moderate to full sunlight to thrive. It is not recommended to grow the plant in heavily shaded areas as it can negatively affect its growth.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Alchemilla growth is between 10°C and 20°C. The plant cannot tolerate temperatures below 0°C or above 25°C. During the winter months, it is important to protect the plant from frost.
Soil Requirements
Alchemilla filicaulis Buser ssp. vestita (Buser) M.E. Bradshaw grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging between 5.5 and 7.0. It is also important to ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged, as the plant can be susceptible to fungal diseases in overly wet conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Alchemilla filicaulis Buser ssp. vestita (Buser) M.E. Bradshaw is a hardy plant that can be grown in a variety of soils and climates. It prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. The plant also prefers partial shade to full sun. The best time to plant the Alchemilla filicaulis Buser ssp. vestita (Buser) M.E. Bradshaw is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild.
Watering Needs
The Alchemilla filicaulis Buser ssp. vestita (Buser) M.E. Bradshaw requires moderate watering. It is important to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. During the dormant season, reduce watering to once a month.
Fertilization
The Alchemilla filicaulis Buser ssp. vestita (Buser) M.E. Bradshaw does not require heavy fertilization. Applying a slow-release balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring is sufficient. Alternatively, you can add compost to the soil to provide the plant with natural nutrients.
Pruning
Pruning the Alchemilla filicaulis Buser ssp. vestita (Buser) M.E. Bradshaw is not necessary. However, you can remove any dead leaves or stems to maintain the appearance of the plant. It is also advisable to deadhead the plant after the flowering period to encourage new growth and blooms.
Propagation of Alchemilla filicaulis Buser ssp. vestita (Buser) M.E. Bradshaw
Alchemilla filicaulis Buser ssp. vestita (Buser) M.E Bradshaw, commonly known as Alpine lady's mantle, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to the rocky and gravelly areas of the Alps. It is an attractive garden plant due to its delicate, fern-like foliage and clusters of small yellow-green flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Propagation of Alchemilla filicaulis Buser ssp. vestita (Buser) M.E. Bradshaw can be done through various methods such as:
Division
Alchemilla filicaulis ssp. vestita can be propagated through division, which involves separating established clumps of the plant into smaller sections and planting them separately. This method is best done during spring or early autumn when the plant is not blooming. Dig up the clump and gently separate the roots without damaging them. Replant the divided sections in a well-draining soil mixture, keeping them moist until new growth appears.
Seeds
Alpine lady's mantle can also be propagated through seeds. Collect seeds from the plant after the flowers have bloomed and allowed the seed pods to mature. Sow the seeds in a well-draining, moist potting mixture in a seed tray or small pots. Cover the seeds lightly with the soil mixture and water them. The seeds will germinate in about two weeks if kept moist and under bright, indirect light. Transplant the seedlings into individual pots once they have developed sufficient roots.
Cuttings
Propagation of Alchemilla filicaulis ssp. vestita can also be done through stem cuttings. Take cuttings from healthy, established plants during the growing season. Strip off the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining, moist soil mixture and keep it under bright, indirect light. In a few weeks, the cutting will develop roots and new growth.
Regardless of the propagation method, ensure that the newly propagated Alchemilla filicaulis ssp. vestita is kept moist and in a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mixture. The plant prefers partial shade to full sun exposure and can thrive in various soil types.
Disease and Pest Management for Alchemilla filicaulis Buser ssp. vestita
Alchemilla filicaulis Buser ssp. vestita is a hardy plant, but like all plants, it is susceptible to certain diseases and pests. Here are some common issues and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes dark spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage this disease, remove any infected plant parts and dispose of them properly. Applying a fungicide can also be effective. In addition, ensuring proper air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent anthracnose.
Root Rot: Root rot is caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. To manage root rot, improve soil drainage and avoid overwatering. Removing infected plant parts can also help prevent the spread of root rot to healthy plants. In severe cases, applying a fungicide may be necessary.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, remove any infected plant parts and dispose of them properly. Applying a fungicide can also be effective. In addition, ensuring proper air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent powdery mildew.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant. To manage aphids, use a strong stream of water to wash them off the plant or apply insecticidal soap. Natural predators, like ladybugs and lacewings, can also be effective in controlling aphids.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that can cause yellowing leaves and a mottled appearance on the plant. To manage spider mites, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil. Increasing humidity around the plant can also help prevent spider mites.
Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails can cause damage to the plant by eating holes in the leaves. To manage slugs and snails, handpick them off the plant and dispose of them properly. Copper tape or diatomaceous earth can be effective in preventing slugs and snails from reaching the plant.
By being aware of these common diseases and pests and taking steps to manage them, you can help ensure the health and vitality of your Alchemilla filicaulis Buser ssp. vestita plant.
