Origin and Common Names
Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell. is a hybrid plant that belongs to the family Rosaceae. This plant is a crossover between Alchemilla stuhlmannii and Alchemilla subnivalis and can be found in the mountainous regions of East Africa. It is commonly known as Stuhlmann's lady's mantle or Snowy Lady's Mantle.General Appearance
Stuhlmann's Lady's Mantle is a perennial plant that can grow up to 20-50 cm in height. Its leaves are rounded and lobed, measuring about 5-8 cm in diameter and covered in fine hairs. The plant's stem is also covered in fine hairs and can stand erect or lean. Its flowers are star-shaped, small, and bright yellow-green clustered together in upright sprays that rise above the foliage.Uses
Stuhlmann's Lady's Mantle has various medicinal uses in traditional East African medicine, mainly for women. Its leaves are used to make an infusion that is believed to have healing power for wounds, stomach ulcers and menstrual disorders. The plant is also used for its astringent and antidiarrheal properties, often used to treat bacterial infections. Besides its medicinal uses, Stuhlmann's Lady's Mantle is also cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens. Its foliage can add a beautiful texture and a soft green colour to a garden bed, while its yellow-green blossoms can add colour to any garden or floral arrangements.Growth Conditions for Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell.
Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell., commonly known as Stuhlmann's lady's mantle, is a herbaceous perennial plant that prefers cool, moist environments, and is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 6-9.
Light Requirements
Stuhlmann's lady's mantle typically requires partial to full shade, though it can tolerate more sun exposure in cooler environments. It is an ideal choice for north-facing gardens, as it thrives in low light conditions.
Temperature Requirements
Stuhlmann's lady's mantle prefers cooler temperatures, between 50-75°F (10-24°C), and is most comfortable in USDA hardiness zones 6-9. It can withstand mild frosts, but prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can damage or kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
This plant prefers well-draining soils that have a neutral to slightly acidic pH (around 6.0-7.0). It can tolerate poor soils, but should be planted in areas that receive regular moisture to ensure optimal growth. Adding organic matter to the soil can help to improve moisture retention and nutrient availability.
Cultivation Methods for Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell.
Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell. grows best in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH ranging from 4.5 to 6.5. The plant thrives in partially shaded to full sunlit areas in moist and moderate climates. Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell. seeds can be sown directly in the ground or started indoors and then transplanted in warmer climates.
Watering Needs for Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell.
Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell. requires regular watering, especially during the hot and dry months. The soil should be evenly moist but not waterlogged to avoid root rot. It is best to water the plant at the base and avoid getting the leaves wet as this can lead to fungal diseases. Mulching helps to retain moisture in the soil and keep the plant healthy.
Fertilization for Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell.
Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell. requires regular fertilization to promote robust growth and vibrant foliage. A balanced slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 16-16-16 can be applied once a month during the growing season. The fertilizer should be applied at the base of the plant in accordance with the instructions on the package.
Pruning for Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell.
Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell. does not require frequent pruning but can benefit from deadheading the spent blooms to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy or sparse. If the foliage becomes damaged or diseased, the affected leaves should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of the disease. Overall, the plant has a low maintenance and hassle-free growth habit.
Propagation of Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell.
Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell. is a rare hybrid species that is native to the mountains of East Africa. It is an herbaceous perennial that is commonly used in the garden for its attractive foliage and small yellow-green flowers. The plant can be propagated using the following methods:
Division
Division is the easiest way to propagate Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell. and can be done in early spring or late summer. The clump should be carefully dug up and the root ball should be gently divided into several smaller sections, making sure each section has a good collection of roots. The smaller sections can then be replanted immediately.
Seed Propagation
Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell. can also be grown from seed, although it is a bit more challenging. The seeds should be sown in early spring or late summer in trays of seed compost. The tray should be kept in a sheltered spot and watered regularly. After about four to six weeks, the seedlings should be ready for transplanting into individual pots. The plants can then be planted out in their permanent positions in the garden after about one year.
Cuttings
Cuttings can also be taken from Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell. in late spring or early summer. Softwood cuttings should be taken and planted into a pot or tray of cutting compost. The pot or tray should be kept in a warm, bright spot and watered regularly. After about four to six weeks, the cuttings should have rooted and be ready for transplanting into individual pots. The plants can then be planted out in the garden after about six months.
Disease Management for Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell.
Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell., commonly known as Stuhlmann's Lady's Mantle, is susceptible to several diseases that can affect its growth and yield. Proper disease management is essential to maintain plant health and productivity.
Common Diseases:
1. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that affects Alchemilla stuhlmannii. The symptoms include white or grayish powdery spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers. The affected leaves may become distorted and eventually die. To manage this disease, remove the infected plant parts, and avoid overhead watering. Improve air circulation around the plants by pruning and spacing. Applying a fungicide may also help control powdery mildew.
2. Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that produces rust-colored fungal spores on the leaves, stems, and flowers. The affected plant parts may become yellow and eventually die. To manage rust in Alchemilla stuhlmannii, remove the infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering. Improve air circulation, reduce humidity, and apply a fungicide.
3. Verticillium wilt: Verticillium wilt is a soil-borne fungal disease that affects the vascular system of plants. The symptoms include yellowing and wilting of the leaves, followed by the death of the plant. The disease is difficult to manage, but improving soil drainage and avoiding overhead watering may help. Remove and destroy infected plant parts and rotate with non-susceptible crops.
Pest Management for Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell.
Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell. is also susceptible to several pests that can affect its growth and yield. Proper pest management is essential to maintain plant health and productivity.
Common Pests:
1. Aphids: Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encourage natural predators, such as ladybugs, to control aphid populations.
2. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on plant sap, causing yellowing, stippling, and webbing on the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to wash off the mites. Encourage natural predators, such as predatory mites or lacewings. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
3. Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails are mollusks that can chew on the leaves and stem of Alchemilla stuhlmannii. To manage slugs and snails, handpick them or use snail bait. Use copper bands to protect the plants or create barriers with coffee grounds or eggshells.
By following these disease and pest management techniques, you can keep your Alchemilla stuhlmannii Engl. x A. subnivalis Baker f. ex Hell. healthy and productive.
