Alchemilla 'Irish Silk'
Alchemilla 'Irish Silk'
Alchemilla ‘Irish Silk’ is a reliable herbaceous perennial grown for its soft foliage and long-lasting sprays of delicate flowers. It forms a neat mound of large, pale green leaves with a softly felted texture, creating attractive ground cover throughout the growing season.
From late spring into summer, strong stems rise above the foliage carrying airy clusters of tiny yellow-green flowers. These blooms bring a light, natural look to borders and are highly valued for fresh and dried flower arrangements.
Easy to grow and low maintenance, Alchemilla ‘Irish Silk’ works well in both traditional and contemporary planting schemes.
Key features
- Plant type: Herbaceous perennial
- Flowering period: May to July
- Flower colour: Yellow-green
- Foliage colour: Pale green
- Height and spread: 45cm x 60cm
- Hardiness: Fully hardy
Where to grow Alchemilla ‘Irish Silk’
- Ideal for beds and borders
- Suitable for cottage gardens and informal planting schemes
- Works well as edging along paths
- Excellent for underplanting roses and shrubs
- Thrives in sun or partial shade
The soft foliage pairs well with many flowering perennials. Its yellow-green flowers help link different colours together within a planting scheme.
Benefits for UK wildlife
- Flowers attract bees and other pollinating insects
- Provides nectar during late spring and summer
- Supports pollinator-friendly planting schemes
- Adds diversity to wildlife gardens
The open flower clusters offer an accessible food source for a range of beneficial insects.
Planting tips
- Plant in moist but well-drained soil
- Grow in full sun or partial shade
- Water regularly during dry periods while establishing
- Cut back faded flower stems to encourage fresh foliage
- Divide mature clumps every few years to maintain healthy growth
The foliage often catches and holds raindrops and morning dew, adding extra interest to the garden.
Why choose Alchemilla ‘Irish Silk’?
- Soft, attractive foliage from spring to autumn
- Airy flowers brighten borders
- Useful as a cut flower
- Easy to grow and maintain
- Attracts pollinating insects
- Suitable for a wide range of garden styles
This versatile perennial brings texture, seasonal colour and wildlife value to gardens of all sizes.
Other names: Lady’s mantle ‘Irish Silk’
Fully grown size: Height 45cm, spread 60cm
Light: Full sun or partial shade
Soil: Moist but well-drained soil
Position: Borders, cottage gardens, path edging and underplanting schemes
Special features: Attractive foliage, cut flowers, easy care, pollinator-friendly
Ideal for: Cottage gardens, wildlife gardens, informal borders and mixed perennial planting
Hardiness: Fully hardy in the UK