About Alchemilla vulgaris L.
Identification of Alchemilla to the genus level is fairly straightforward thanks to its distinctively corrugated, lobed leaves. These leaves are kidney-shaped to semicircular, with 5 to 11 lobes total, and upper leaves have fewer lobes than lower leaves. This genus produces clusters of yellowish-green flowers. Each individual flower is typically 3mm in diameter. It has no true petals, but does have a four-lobed epicalyx, four sepals, and usually four stamens, though it sometimes has five. In Britain and Ireland, the tiny flowers of Alchemilla vulgaris can be seen from June through September. Alchemilla mollis is a similar species that is rather larger. It is quite a common garden escape that sometimes grows in hedgerows and on unkempt grassland. Common names for this plant (lady's mantle) include nine hooks, bear's foot, and lion's foot.
