Astilbe 'Dusseldorf' (_japonica_ hybrid)

RHS Plant Profile
astilbe 'Dusseldorf'
Bogs Herbaceous Perennial

Compact, clump-forming perennial about 30-60cm tall, with finely divided green leaves, tinted bronze in spring. Purplish-pink, fluffy flower plumes appear above the foliage, in early summer

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Poorly–drained
pH
Acid or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Saxifragaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus
Astilbe are rhizomatous herbaceous perennials with attractive, usually ternately divided leaves and erect plume-like panicles of tiny white, pink or purple flowers in summer. The old, brown flower-heads remain attractive in autumn
Name Status
Accepted

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist, humus rich or boggy soil in full sun, or in drier soils grow in partial shade. Will not thrive in soils that dry out in summer. Divide and replant every 3-4 years to maintain vigour and flower quality, discarding any old, woody rhizomes. May be damaged by late spring frosts

Propagation

Propagate by division in winter or early spring; replant immediately or pot up to plant out in spring when re-established

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Flowering stems may be cut back when flowers fade, or left standing for winter interest

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to leaf spot and Powdery mildews