Plant of the week

● ALCHEMILLA mollis

IF in doubt, plant some lady’s mantle – it really is one of the most useful perennials that will grow in challenging conditions.

I’ve used it in the dry ground beneath my birch trees where it is currently exuding good health and big heads of chartreuse yellow flowers.

The scalloped limey green foliage will brighten the dullest of areas and looks particularly beautiful after rainfall as pearly drops of water sit glistening on the leaves.

It is a vigorous self-seeder so if you like polite plants that stay where you planted them, it’s not for you! But if you have difficult dry or shady spots, or gravelled areas that need a bit of softening, she’s your lady.