Astilbe, planting guide and care work

astilbe-information-advice-care

Astilbe (Astilbe spp.) are perennial herbaceous plants, which are part of the Saxifragaceae family, originating from Asia. They are often found in gardens and parks, being cherished for their panicle-type inflorescences, variously colored (they can have shades of red, pink, purple, white), supported by tall and rigid stems. Depending on the cultivar, Astilbe will bloom from late spring to late summer. The leaves are green, alternatively-arranged, similar to ferns, which give the plant a bushy appearance.

Astilbe – varieties and cultivars

There are several species of Astilbe and numerous hybrid cultivars. The most common species are A. japonica, A. chinensis, A. thunbergii and A. simplicifolia, together with a large number of hybrids, found under the name of A x. arendsii.

  • Astilbe x arendsii ‘Bridal Veil’: it blooms at the beginning or in the middle of the vegetative growth period. It has cream-white flowers;
  • Astilbe x arendsii ‘Fanal’: with intense red flowers and lacy leaves, which change their color depending on the season;
  • Astilbe x arendsii ‘Rheinland’: it is suitable for shaded places. The plant has pink flowers and dark green leaves;
  • Astilbe chinensis ‘Visions in Red’: it has a compact appearance, intense red flowers and foliage with shades of bronze;
  • Astilbe x japonica ‘Peach Blossom’: it has pale pink flowers and glossy green foliage. It can be grown in full sunlight or partial shade.

Environmental conditions

Light. The plants grow well both in bright and partially shaded places. Light directly influences the process of flowering and growth, but direct sunlight, in summer afternoons, can cause leaf burns.

Temperature. Astilbe is a cold-resistant species, even in areas with a harsher climate. However, in conditions of very low temperatures, the plants can be covered with dry leaves or sawdust, to protect the root.

Soil. It prefers fertile soils, moist, with a slightly acidic pH (6).

AstilbeCare

Watering. It is done moderately, so that the soil is kept damp, but not too wet. In hot and dry periods, the plants are watered more often, using a sufficient amount of water. Periods of prolonged drought cause the drying of the leaves and flowers.

Fertilizing. To meet the nutritional requirements of the plants and to encourage flowering, it is recommended to apply fertilizers specially formulated for flowering plants.

Recommended products

Read carefully and follow the instructions on the label of each product

The plants can also be used as cut flowers, and in order to extend the flowering period and to preserve their freshness for a longer period, it is recommended to use a fertilizer specially formulated for cut flowers.

Recommended products

Read carefully and follow the instructions on the label of each product

Propagation. Astilbe can be propagated by dividing the bush or by seeds (less often). Dividing the bush can be carried out once every 3 years, in spring, having the role (with the exception of propagation) to improve the appearance of the plants, avoiding the thickening of the bush.

Pruning. It does not require regular pruning. Dried flowers on the plant can be nice looking even in winter. However, dried flowers can be removed after the flowering period or in early spring.

Recommended products

Read carefully and follow the instructions on the label of each product

Diseases and pests

The plants can be affected by powdery mildew, Fusarium wilt and leaf spots. Among the pests, mites and ladybugs can infest Astilbe.

Additionally
  • The plants are not toxic to animals;
  • It is recommended that the watering be carried out at the base of the plants, so that the foliage remains dry.
×

We help you
to take care of your plants

If you haven't yet found solutions in our articles or previous discussions, start a new discussion and our experts will help you.

New discussion about

Astilbe, planting guide and care work
Astilbe, planting guide and care work

Your information:

Your name must contain a maximum of 30 characters. If you would like to pass on the details of the problem you are facing, please complete the other fields.

The maximum document size is 59 MB.

Add
It helps if you attach some Images or Clips maximumm 15 sec


Want to know more?

Our specialists participate in the discussions of the armuro community with useful information and solutions.
If you want, you can start a discussion about the problem you are facing.
Read the discussions