Position – Part or full shade
Soil – Moist
Flowering Period –Spring/Summer
Hardiness – Fully Hardy
Astilbe are rhizomatous herbaceous perennials. They produce plumes of white, pink and purple flowers in spring/summer which are popular used in floristry. Flowers are also attractive to bees and butterflies. They are native to Asia and North America in mountain ravines and woodland environments. Some species such as Astilbe rivularis are used in traditional medicine to treat ulcers, aches and inflammation among other ailments. Astilbe are best suited to shady borders and beds and are perfect for a bog garden as they prefer moist soil. You should expect to see your Astilbe grow to an approximate height and spread of up to 1m (3ft).
Astilbe are best planted in a moist soil of loam within an acidic, alkaline or neutral PH balance. They are best suited to either an exposed or sheltered position in full or part shade. If planted in full sun they may burn. Astilbe can be grown in deep shade, however they will not flower as much.
Resents being disturbed once the plant is established. Appreciates an annual spring mulch of well-rotted compost. Divide plants every 3-4 years to maintain vigour and flower quality once plants are established.
It is possible to propagate Astilbe by seed sown in the autumn, or by division in spring or autumn.
