Alchemilla micans aka Gleaming Lady's Mantle

Alchemilla micans is an easy-care perennial that requires minimal attention once established. It tolerates a wide range of soil types and light conditions, is naturally pest and disease resistant, and even deer and rabbits avoid it. The plant is notably untroubled by slugs and snails thanks to its downy leaves. Simply provide moderate moisture, avoid waterlogged conditions, and deadhead spent flowers to prevent excessive self-seeding.

Alchemilla micans prefers consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. About an inch of water per week is sufficient for established plants. Newly planted specimens should be watered regularly throughout their first summer to help establish strong root systems. While the plant handles brief dry spells better than many leafy perennials, avoid letting it sit in dried-out soil for extended periods. Container-grown plants require more frequent watering as potting mix dries quickly.

Alchemilla micans is remarkably adaptable to different soil types. It grows well in chalky, loamy, clayey, or sandy soils, performing best in soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. The most important factor is drainage - avoid waterlogged conditions while maintaining some moisture. In its native habitat, it thrives in species-rich grazed pastures, including those on shallow soil overlying limestone, demonstrating its soil adaptability.

Alchemilla micans thrives in both sun and partial shade, making it versatile for various garden positions. It grows well in conditions ranging from half shade to full sun. In hot climates or regions with intense summer sun, some afternoon shade helps prevent leaf scorch. The species naturally occurs in meadows and woodland edges where dappled light is common.

Division is the easiest method for propagating Alchemilla micans. In early spring or autumn, lift the plant and split clumps using a sharp spade, selecting younger outer sections approximately 15cm across. Replant divisions immediately and water well. For seed propagation, collect ripe seeds in late summer and sow them in pots, surface-sowing or lightly covering with soil. Keep in a sheltered outdoor location or coldframe, as seeds benefit from cold stratification. Germination typically takes 14-30 days.

Alchemilla micans is a medium-sized perennial typically reaching 30-50 cm (12-20 inches) in height with a similar spread of 45-60 cm (18-24 inches). It forms attractive clumps of dark green, silky foliage that can develop reddish-brown tints on exposed stems. As a perennial apomict, it grows at a moderate rate and may take a couple of seasons to reach full size. The plant dies back completely in winter, with new leaves emerging in spring.

Alchemilla micans is native to Europe and extends eastward into Siberia. Its range encompasses Austria, the Balkans, Scandinavia, and much of central and eastern Europe, extending from southern France, Italy, and Greece northward to southwest Norway and eastward to western Siberia. The species has been introduced to northeastern North America where it has naturalized in parts of Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Quebec, Maine, and New York.

Alchemilla micans flowers from late May through September, typically blooming earlier than most related Alchemilla species, with flowering usually beginning in May. The plant produces small yellowish-green flowers in loose clusters above the foliage. Seeds are shed by late June or early July, after which the inflorescence becomes relatively inconspicuous. As a perennial apomict, the plant produces viable seeds without requiring pollination.

Alchemilla micans generally does not require fertilizing. The plant grows readily on its own without additional nutrients. Applying organic mulch around the base in spring helps retain soil moisture and gradually improves soil structure as it breaks down, which is usually sufficient to maintain healthy growth. Avoid adding fertilizer as it can encourage excessive, floppy growth.

By late July, cut Alchemilla micans back to the base to encourage a flush of fresh, attractive foliage. Water the plant well after cutting back. Deadhead spent flowers throughout the season to prevent excessive self-seeding, as the plant can spread freely in favorable conditions. In autumn, you can either cut back faded foliage or leave it in place to provide winter shelter for beneficial insects. Remove old foliage in early spring before new growth emerges.

Alchemilla micans is a hardy outdoor perennial suited to USDA zones 3-8, tolerating cold winters down to approximately -40°C (-40°F). It thrives in temperate climates and naturally goes dormant in winter, re-emerging in spring. The plant prefers cool to moderate temperatures and may struggle in hot, humid climates, particularly if exposed to intense afternoon sun. In its native European and Siberian range, it grows from sea level to 400 meters elevation.

Alchemilla micans is remarkably resistant to pests and diseases. The downy texture of its leaves makes it unpalatable to slugs and snails, which typically avoid it. Deer and rabbits also generally leave the plant alone. There are no significant disease problems associated with this species. The main concern is not a pest but the plant's tendency to self-seed prolifically if spent flowers aren't removed.

Alchemilla micans is cold-hardy and thrives in temperate climates. It tolerates winter temperatures down to approximately -40°C (-40°F), going fully dormant and dying back to the ground in winter before re-emerging in spring. The plant prefers cooler growing conditions and may struggle in extreme heat, particularly with intense direct sun. In warm climates, provide afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch.

Alchemilla species, including A. micans, have a long history of medicinal use dating back to medieval times. Traditional uses include treating digestive issues, wounds, and various women's health concerns. The plants contain tannins that provide astringent properties, making them useful for wound healing and treating diarrhea. However, for medicinal purposes, A. vulgaris and A. mollis are more commonly documented and used. Always consult a healthcare professional before using any plant medicinally.

In spring, remove any old dead foliage before new growth emerges and apply a layer of organic mulch. Through summer, water during dry spells and deadhead spent flowers to prevent self-seeding. By late July, you can cut the plant back hard to encourage fresh foliage. In autumn, either remove faded foliage or leave it to provide winter insulation for the crown and shelter for beneficial insects. In winter, the plant is fully dormant underground and requires no care.

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.