Astrantia major Moulin Rouge

The Moulin Rouge in Paris, famed for flamboyance, Can-Can dancing and swirling skirts, lends its name to this wonderful showy Astrantia. The versatility of Astrantia is renowned throughout horticulture, and you will be able to grow this exotic looking beauty in near any aspect and soil type you so desire. The central cluster has many dark red pincushions, enhanced by the depth of colour in the surrounding ruffs. Each bloom is held atop an upright, branching stem, creating sprays of intriguing star-like flowers from June until September. Though a traditional cottage garden favourite, Moulin Rouge has proven to be popular in contemporary gardens; it has to be added the flowers make a superb cut flower arrangement. Loved by bees and butterflies, Astrantia are commonly known as Hattie's Pincushion, because the centre looks like pins stuck into a cushion, although we are never sure who Hattie was. Slug resistant, Astrantia Moulin Rouge prefers (though not essential) to be grown in moist, well-drained soil in part shade and tolerates some sun. Growing to a height of 75cm and spreading to 45cm. Astrantia are fully hardy perennials which can be left outside all year round to be enjoyed for years to come with no winter protection required.