Astilbe chinensis (Chinese Astilbe)
Color Name: Vision in Red
Astilbe are a popular choice for shady gardens, where they perform well if given a rich, moist soil and regular watering. This recent midsize selection features showy, pinkish-red fuzzy plumes, over a compact mound of elegant, lacy blue-green leaves. Nice in the border, also thrives in tubs or mixed containers. Excellent for cutting. Seed heads may be removed, or left on the plant for winter interest. Plants should be divided every 2 to 3 years in early spring. Will tolerate full sun in cool summer regions. This variety tolerates drier conditions than most, though summer watering may be required.
Growing Tips: Astilbes are long-lived perennials that are most comfortable when grown in rich soil and light shade to filtered sun. They will grow in full shade, but will not bloom as prolifically there. Though they are easy to grow, Astilbes have one critical requirement-lots of water. Plants must have consistently moist soil; dryness leads to a quick demise, especially in sun. Increase watering as the foliage emerges and the plumes mature. If the soil dries out, the leaves will develop brown, crispy margins and will begin to drop. Fertilize Astilbes in late spring before flowering starts. Wait to cut back the old foliage until spring; it will help protect the plant from winter damage. In the spring, if the crown has risen above soil level, gently press it back into the ground and apply some organic matter around the plant. Plants should be divided in early spring every 3-4 years to maintain vigor.
Photo courtesy of Walters Garden, Inc.
Astilbe are a popular choice for shady gardens, where they perform well if given a rich, moist soil and regular watering. This recent midsize selection features showy, pinkish-red fuzzy plumes, over a compact mound of elegant, lacy blue-green leaves. Nice in the border, also thrives in tubs or mixed containers. Excellent for cutting. Seed heads may be removed, or left on the plant for winter interest. Plants should be divided every 2 to 3 years in early spring. Will tolerate full sun in cool summer regions. This variety tolerates drier conditions than most, though summer watering may be required.
Growing Tips: Astilbes are long-lived perennials that are most comfortable when grown in rich soil and light shade to filtered sun. They will grow in full shade, but will not bloom as prolifically there. Though they are easy to grow, Astilbes have one critical requirement-lots of water. Plants must have consistently moist soil; dryness leads to a quick demise, especially in sun. Increase watering as the foliage emerges and the plumes mature. If the soil dries out, the leaves will develop brown, crispy margins and will begin to drop. Fertilize Astilbes in late spring before flowering starts. Wait to cut back the old foliage until spring; it will help protect the plant from winter damage. In the spring, if the crown has risen above soil level, gently press it back into the ground and apply some organic matter around the plant. Plants should be divided in early spring every 3-4 years to maintain vigor.
Photo courtesy of Walters Garden, Inc.
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Flower Color: Red shades Foliage Color: Green shades
Height: 16 to 20 Inches Spread: 12 to 20 Inches Hardy in Zone: 5, 6 |
Blooms: Mid-Summer
Foliage Season: |
Exposure
Full Sun
Partial Shade
Full Shade
Soil Moisture Needs
Moderate
Moist
Attributes |
 Fragrant  Dried Flower  Container Specimen Plant Mass Planting Landscapes Easy to Grow Cut Flower or Foilage Colorful Foliage Border
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Critter Resistance
Deer
Rabbit
