Alpine Lady's Mantle

In this genus there are 250 species of perennials found throughout northern temperate regions and at high altitudes in the tropics. Alchemilla alpina is a handsome foliage plant for rock gardens, though it is not easy to grow, and plants sold under this name are often the similar but more adaptable A conjuncta Alchemilla xanthochlora, a variable, aggregate species, resembles the most common lady's mantle, A. mollis. "Lady's mantle", the common name for A. xanthochlora, refers to the plant's reputation as an herb for female disorders. Historically, A. xanthochlora, was of greater importance than A. alpina as a medicinal herb, but it appears that the latter is more effective. Although widely planted in herb gardens, A mollis has not medicinal uses. Alchemilla means "little magic one", because the way the leaves hold water was thought magical.

Mat-forming perennial with a creeping woody rootstock and long-stalked, round to kidney-shaped leaves, to 3.5cm (1 3/8in) long, deeply cut into 5-7 lobes. Leaf undersides are clad in silky hairs. Clusters of tiny yellow-green flowers appear in summer.

Common Name:	Alpine Lady's Mantle
Botanical Name:	Alchemilla alpina
Genus:	Alchemilla
Family:	Rosaceae
Cultivation:	Moist, well-drained soil in sun or semi-shade. Alchemilla xanthochlora dislikes lime.
Propagation:	By seed sown in early spring; by division in autumn or spring. Most alchemillas hybridize and self-seed readily.
Harvest:	Whole plants (A. xanthochlora) are cur as the flowers begin to open. Leaves (A.alpina) are cut after flowering, when the foliage is quite dry. All parts are dried for infusions and liquid extracts.
Native Location:	NW and C Europe and Greenland
Height:	10-20cm (4-8in)
Width:	10-20cm (4-8in)
Hardiness:	Z3-7
Parts Used:	Leaves
Properties:	An astringent, anti-inflammatory herb that controls bleeding and discharges.
Medicinal Uses:	Internally for menstrual, menopausal, and postpartum problems, and for diarrhea. Externally as a mouthwash after tooth extraction, douche for vaginal discharge, or skin lotion for sores and minor injuries. It is also used in veterinary medicine to treat diarrhea.
Bibliography:	Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown. Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited. pg 110