Perennial
Hybrid astilbe
Astilbe × arendsii
Clump-forming garden hybrids with feathery summer flower plumes and finely divided leaves. They need consistently moist soil and prefer partial shade. Heat and drought can scorch the foliage.
- Size
- 0.5–1.5 m high · 0.5–1 m wideVaries by cultivar
- Light
- Partial shade
- Water
- High
- Winter
- Very hardy
- Seasonal form
- Dies back
- Maintenance
- Moderate
Before planting
- Choose humus-rich soil that stays moist in summer, ideally in partial or dappled shade. Avoid dry root competition and places where the crowns remain submerged.
- Typical forms are 0.5–1.2 m tall, with some reaching about 1.5 m; spread is around 0.5–1 m. Check the cultivar for final size and flowering time.
Why choose it
- Feathery plumes in white, pink, red or purple shades bring texture to summer borders; the colour depends on the cultivar.
- Fern-like foliage contrasts with broad-leaved shade plants. The clumps suit moist borders and planting near water, above the water level.
Care
- Water before the soil dries out, especially while establishing and during hot weather. Mulch with organic matter to help retain moisture.
- Divide ageing or congested clumps in spring, roughly every few years, to maintain vigour. Replant and water the divisions promptly.
- Faded flower plumes may remain for winter interest. Cut dead stems and leaves back before new spring growth.
Good to know
- The Arendsii group contains garden hybrids, not one uniform wild species. Seedlings may differ from the parent plant.
- The above-ground growth dies back in winter and regrows in spring. Tolerance of sun depends on reliable soil moisture; hot, dry sun is unsuitable.