Pollination Information for Lady's Mantle (Alchemilla mollis)

Lady's Mantle is a perennial plant that produces abundant yellow-green flowers during the late spring and early summer months. The flowers of Lady's Mantle have no scent and are not showy, but they are an important source of nectar and pollen for a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and flies.

Lady's Mantle has a unique floral structure that differs from most other flowering plants. Its flowers are composed of inconspicuous male and female parts that are surrounded by many small, greenish-yellow modified leaves called bracts. The bracts are arranged in a cup-like shape that holds water droplets after rain or dew, making Lady's Mantle a favorite of water-seeking insects such as butterflies and bees.

Lady's Mantle is known to be self-fertile, meaning it can produce seeds on its own without the help of pollinators. However, self-fertilization leads to less genetic diversity in the plant population, which can have negative consequences in the long term. Therefore, pollination by insects is necessary for maintaining genetic diversity and healthy plant populations.

The pollination process in Lady's Mantle occurs when an insect lands on the bracts, attracted by the nectar produced by the flowers. The insect then brushes against the male part of the flower, called the stamen, and picks up pollen grains. It then flies to another Lady's Mantle flower and transfers the pollen to the female part of the flower, called the stigma. Once the pollen is transferred, fertilization occurs, and seeds can develop.

In conclusion, Lady's Mantle relies on bees, butterflies, and flies for pollination, which is crucial for maintaining genetic diversity in its population. The unique floral structure of Lady's Mantle, with its cup-like bracts that hold water droplets, is a favorite of water-seeking insects, making it a valuable addition to any pollinator garden.

Lady's Mantle (Alchemilla mollis) FAQ

General Information

What is Lady's Mantle?

Lady's Mantle (Alchemilla mollis) is a herbaceous perennial plant native to Europe and Asia that is commonly grown in gardens for its attractive foliage and delicate yellow-green flowers. It is also known for its medicinal properties and has been used for centuries to treat a range of ailments.

What are the characteristics of Lady's Mantle?

Lady's Mantle has large, lobed leaves that are covered in soft hairs and have a slightly scalloped edge. The leaves are a grey-green color and have a slightly wrinkled appearance. The plant produces clusters of tiny yellow-green flowers that bloom in early summer and are held above the foliage on tall, wiry stems. Lady's Mantle typically grows to a height of 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) and has a spread of up to 36 inches (90 cm).

Growing Lady's Mantle

How do I plant Lady's Mantle?

Lady's Mantle prefers a moist, well-drained soil in partial shade to full sun. It can be easily propagated by division in spring or autumn, or by taking softwood cuttings in early summer.

What care does Lady's Mantle require?

Lady's Mantle requires minimal care. It is a hardy plant that can withstand cold temperatures and drought conditions. It should be watered regularly in dry periods and fertilized with a slow-release fertilizer in spring. Deadheading the flowers will encourage a longer blooming period.

Uses for Lady's Mantle

What are the medicinal properties of Lady's Mantle?

Lady's Mantle has been used for centuries to treat a range of ailments, including diarrhea, menstrual cramps, and heavy periods. It contains tannins, which have an astringent effect that can reduce inflammation and bleeding. It can also be applied topically to soothe skin irritations and wounds.

What are other uses for Lady's Mantle?

Lady's Mantle is a popular garden plant that is often used in borders, rock gardens, and woodland gardens. Its attractive foliage and delicate flowers make it a great addition to any garden. The leaves can also be used in floral arrangements.

Pests and Diseases

What pests and diseases affect Lady's Mantle?

Lady's Mantle is generally not prone to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by slugs and snails. These can be controlled with slug pellets or by handpicking.

Planting and Care for Lady's Mantle (Alchemilla mollis)

Lady's mantle is a charming and useful plant with soft, fuzzy leaves and delicate, yellow-green flowers. It's native to Europe, but it's widely grown in North America as well. Here are some guidelines for planting and caring for this lovely plant:

Planting

• Choose a site that gets full or partial sun, and make sure the soil is well-draining.
• Prepare the soil by loosening it with a fork or spade, and adding organic matter like compost or peat moss.
• Plant the lady's mantle in spring or fall, spacing each plant about 18 inches apart.
• Water the plant well after planting and keep the soil slightly moist until it's established.

Care

• Water the plant regularly, particularly during hot, dry spells.
• Apply a layer of mulch around the plant to help conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds.
• Fertilize the plant once or twice a year with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.
• Remove any dead or damaged leaves throughout the growing season to keep the plant looking neat.
• Trim back the plant in fall after the first frost, cutting it down to the ground.

Propagation

Lady's mantle can be propagated by division in spring or fall. Simply dig up the plant, carefully divide the roots into smaller clumps, and replant them at the same depth as before. Water the new plants thoroughly and keep the soil slightly moist until they're established.

By following these simple guidelines, you can enjoy beautiful, healthy lady's mantle plants for many years to come.