Alchemilla mollis 'Auslese' is a refined cultivar of lady's mantle prized for its chartreuse blooms and velvety scalloped foliage that catches dew and raindrops like jewels. This compact selection maintains a tidy habit with improved flower density and makes an excellent edging or underplanting choice. It brings a soft cooling effect to mixed borders and pairs beautifully with vibrant perennials.
Height & Spread: 12 - 18 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Well drained, humus rich soils
Watering Needs: Moderate; tolerates short dry periods once established
Deer Resistance: Rarely browsed by deer or rabbits
Native Status
Alchemilla mollis is native to the Caucasus and Carpathian Mountains in Europe. 'Auslese' is a cultivated variety selected for garden performance.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Nectar rich blooms attract small butterflies such as Small Tortoiseshell and Meadow Brown during peak bloom.
Bees
- Visited by honeybees, bumblebees, and small solitary bees that forage on its late spring blossoms.
Hoverflies
- Supports beneficial hoverflies which aid in pollination and aphid control.
Beneficial Insects
- Provides habitat for lacewing larvae and ladybugs that shelter beneath its dense foliage and feed on soft bodied pests.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow clumps to expand without overlapping adjacent perennials.
Landscape Placement:
- Best used at the front of mixed borders, along paths, or as a filler beneath taller flowering plants. Its texture and color provide cooling contrast in summer compositions.
Companion Plants
- Iris germanica (Bearded Iris) - The upright foliage and dramatic flowers of iris contrast with the rounded form and frothy blooms of lady’s mantle.
- Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' (Wood Sage) - Spiky purple flower wands balance the low mounding structure of Alchemilla and bloom in synchrony.
- Heuchera villosa 'Autumn Bride' (Coral Bells) - A shade tolerant perennial with broad, pale green foliage that echoes the softness of Alchemilla’s leaves.
- Geranium macrorrhizum (Bigroot Geranium) - Drought tolerant and aromatic, it knits well with Alchemilla and blooms in a similar time frame.
- Campanula persicifolia (Peachleaf Bellflower) - Vertical blue or white flower spikes rise above Alchemilla’s blooms for an airy texture contrast.