Astilbe chinensis var. taquetii
Tall, imposing, perennial about 1.2-2m tall, producing mounds of finely divided, ferny, glossy dark green leaves about 40cm long, with toothed margins. Produces narrow plumes of reddish-purple flowers to 45cm long, in late summer
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red Purple | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Saxifragaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming, Suckering
- 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
Correct
- Plant range
- Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moist but well-drained or boggy soil in dappled shade, or in indirect sun where the soil remains moisture-retentive in summer. Drought intolerant, may be affected by leaf scorch in hot sun. Good for waterside planting but spreads by runners and may therefore have the potential to become a nuisance. See Astilbe cultivation
Propagation
Propagate by division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut down all stems and leaves before the new spring growth emerges
Pests
May be susceptible to vine weevil
Diseases
May be susceptible to Powdery mildews and leaf scorch in hot sun
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.