About Astrantia maxima Pall.
Astrantia maxima Pall. reaches an average height of 90 centimetres (35 inches). Its stem is erect, hairless, and has few branches and few leaves. Basal leaves have long 10–20 centimetre (3.9–7.9 inch) petioles, 3 to 7 lobes, and toothed segments; they measure 8–15 centimetres (3.1–5.9 inches) across. Cauline leaves, which grow on the stem rather than at the base, are usually two in number, are stalkless, stem-clasping, lanceolate-shaped, and have a three-lobed apex. The inflorescence is umbrella-shaped, with a diameter of 2–3 centimetres (0.79–1.18 inches). There are 10 to 20 numerous floral bracts, each 10–18 millimetres (0.39–0.71 inches) long, pinkish (sometimes white) with a pointed tip. The small flowers are pinkish-white. Central flowers are hermaphrodite, while outer flowers are male. The flowering period lasts from May to July. This species is native to Europe and is widespread in the Caucasus. It has been cultivated in the British Isles since 1804. In Turkey, it is common in woodlands and moist meadows, growing at an altitude of 1,300–2,400 metres (4,300–7,900 ft) above sea level. The subspecies Astrantia maxima Pallas subsp. haradjianii is also common in Turkey. Astrantia maxima is an entomophilous (insect-pollinated) plant, mainly pollinated by beetles, and also pollinated by other insects. This perennial plant also reproduces via buds that grow at ground level. It can be grown from seed for garden use; seeds require a 2 to 3 month period of cold stratification to germinate. For cultivation, Astrantia maxima grows well in gardens when provided with partial shade and consistent moisture. Its flowerheads produce summer colour in shades of red, pink and white. It is resistant to rabbit grazing. It is hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 5 to 9.
