Organically grown at KoruKai Herb Farm, New Zealand, without the use of pesticides, herbicides, or other agrochemicals.
Lady’s Mantle is a graceful perennial herb from the rose family, recognised by its velvety fan-shaped leaves that collect sparkling drops of dew like tiny jewels. For centuries, this plant has held a special place in European herbal traditions, particularly in supporting women’s health, healing, and vitality.
Its soft mounds of foliage and sprays of delicate yellow-green flowers make it both a valuable medicinal herb and a lovely ornamental plant for the herb garden. It grows easily and returns reliably year after year, thriving in cooler climates and moist soils.
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Above: Mid summer and Lady's Mantle is in full bloom ready for harvest art KoruKai Herb Farm, Banks Peninsula, NZ
Medicinal Uses*
Lady’s Mantle is best known as a classic women’s herb, traditionally used to tone and support the reproductive system. Its astringent properties make it useful for heavy menstrual bleeding, menstrual cramping, and supporting recovery after childbirth. It has long been used to strengthen and tone the uterus and help regulate the menstrual cycle.
Beyond women’s health, Lady’s Mantle is also valued for its ability to support digestion, particularly in cases of diarrhoea and digestive weakness. Its tannin-rich leaves make it a useful wound herb, both internally and externally, helping to tighten tissues and support healing.
Traditionally, it has also been used as a gentle anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing herb in washes and compresses.
Growing Instructions
Lady’s Mantle is an easy-to-grow perennial that thrives in full sun to partial shade, preferring cooler conditions and moisture-retentive, well-drained soil. It grows especially well in fertile garden beds and appreciates regular watering during dry periods.
When your plant arrives, pot it into a medium-sized container and keep it well watered for the first 1–2 weeks. Transplant into the garden in spring or autumn, spacing plants around 30–40 cm apart. If watered well, it does really well in pots.
Lady’s Mantle forms attractive clumps of dense foliage and can gradually spread over time. It is well suited to borders, cottage gardens, and herb gardens. Remove spent flowers if you wish to prevent self-seeding and encourage fresh leaf growth. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and improve soil health.
It dies back in winter and re-emerges in spring. Cut back old foliage in late autumn or winter and apply compost to support strong regrowth. It is frost hardy and well suited to many regions of New Zealand.
Harvesting
The leaves and flowering tops of Lady’s Mantle are harvested during flowering, usually in late spring to mid-summer, when the medicinal constituents are strongest.
Harvest on a dry day after the dew has dried. Using secateurs, cut healthy leaves and flowering stems, leaving enough foliage for the plant to continue growing. Multiple light harvests can be taken through the season.
Processing and Drying
Lady’s Mantle dries well when handled carefully. Spread the leaves and flowers in a single layer on drying trays or bundle lightly and hang in a warm, shaded, well-ventilated space. Avoid direct sunlight to preserve colour and medicinal quality.
Dry at temperatures below 35°C until the leaves are crisp and stems snap cleanly. Store dried herb in airtight containers away from heat, moisture, and light.
Herbal Preparations*
Lady’s Mantle is commonly prepared as a tea, tincture, or infused herbal blend. Its mild, slightly bitter and astringent flavour combines well with other women’s herbs and digestive herbs.
It can also be used externally as a wash, compress, or sitz bath for soothing tissues and supporting skin repair. Traditionally, it has been included in herbal formulas for menstrual support, postpartum recovery, and digestive healing.
*This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
