Astilbe chinensis (Japanese Astilbe)
Color Name: Dark Side of the Moon
The first-ever dark-leafed Astilbe with purple flowers! Introducing Astilbe Darkside of The Moon . . . The rich, dark chocolate brown foliage forms an incredibly attractive mound that stands 22 inches tall and 28 inches wide with pinkish-purple flower spikes that reach 34 inches tall. New foliage emerges yellow with dark veining and darkens up as it ages. This late-blooming Astilbe extends the Astilbe color season.
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.
Photo courtesy of Walters Garden, Inc.
The first-ever dark-leafed Astilbe with purple flowers! Introducing Astilbe Darkside of The Moon . . . The rich, dark chocolate brown foliage forms an incredibly attractive mound that stands 22 inches tall and 28 inches wide with pinkish-purple flower spikes that reach 34 inches tall. New foliage emerges yellow with dark veining and darkens up as it ages. This late-blooming Astilbe extends the Astilbe color season.
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.
Photo courtesy of Walters Garden, Inc.
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Flower Color: Pink/Purple Shades Foliage Color: Green Shades
Height: 20 to 22 Inches Spread: 24 to 28 Inches Hardy in Zone: 4, 5, 6 |
Blooms: Late Spring / Early Summer
Foliage Season: All 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
