1 / 3Key characteristics
- Family
- Apiaceae
- Height
- 1.5-2 feet tall
- Width
- 1-1.5 feet wide
- Flower color
- Dark burgundy bracts with small, star-like central flowers in a rich pink shade
- Foliage color
- Deep green, divided leaves
- Bloom time
- Early to late summer
- Light
- Partial shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming, but otherwise low care
- Growing zone
- USDA Zones 4-7
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
Perennials
Astrantia major 'Star of Fire'
Star of Fire Greater Masterwort
Astrantia major 'Star of Fire' enchants with its deep burgundy-red blooms that appear from early to late summer, lending a rich, dramatic tone to garden beds and borders. Each flower is composed of small, star-like florets surrounded by dark, papery bracts, creating a layered, intricate look that draws the eye. The intense color and delicate, pincushion-like form make it a unique addition, standing out among softer shades in the garden.
Works well in
- Borders
- Shade Gardens
- Woodland Gardens
- Pollinator Gardens
- Containers
Companion plants
Siberian bugloss · Sweet woodruff · Foamflowers · Epimediums · Hostas · Bleeding hearts
Design tip
The long summer show pairs well with plants that peak earlier, keeping one area interesting for months. Cooler light suits it, so tuck it on the north side of a shrub or wall where the soil stays even.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen in the perennial border at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
More perennials
Trillium kurabayashii
Giant Purple Trillium
Blooms initially deep maroon or reddish-purple, fading to lighter pink or white with age
Partial to full shade

Helleborus x lemperii HGC 'Leona'
Leona Christmas Rose
Blooms deep pink to burgundy
Partial to full shade

Helleborus x iburgensis 'Pippa's Purple'
Pippa's Purple Lenten Rose
Blooms smoky pink with burgundy flecking
Partial shade to full shade; can tolerate full sun in milder climates if roots are kept cool

Paeonia 'Glory Be'
Glory Be Peony
Blooms vivid fuchsia‑pink
Full sun to part shade