Vigorous clump-forming perennial with dark green, softly-hairy, divided leaves, and narrow plumes of flowers in mid to late summer
0.5-1 metres
0.5-1 metres
Grow in moist or boggy soil in dappled shade, where the soil never dries out and remains moisture-retentive in summer. Drought intolerant, and may be scorched in direct sun. Good for waterside and woodland planting. See astilbe cultivation
Propagate by division in late winter to early spring; replant immediately or pot up and grow on under glass to plant out in late spring when plants are re-established
Flowering stems can be tidied and cut back when flowers fade, but can also be left for winter interest and wildlife habitat
May be susceptible to vine weevil
May be susceptible to leaf spot weather damage and Powdery mildews