About

Astilbe 'Boogie Woogie' PBR (x _arendsii_) is a compact herbaceous perennial that forms clumps. Reaching a height of around 60 cm, it produces upright, conical clusters of large pink blooms that rise above dark, divided green leaves. This hybrid is known for its extended blooming period, typically from June to August, and features ovate to lance-shaped, serrated foliage. While it thrives in moist conditions, it can also withstand sunny spots as long as the soil remains consistently damp.

About the genus

Astilbe are perennial plants with rhizomes, characterized by their dissected leaves that typically have a ternate structure. In summer, they produce upright panicles filled with small flowers in shades of white, pink, or purple. The dried flower heads persist into autumn, adding interest to the landscape.

Growing conditions

Sunlight

Partial shade

Soil type

Clay, Loam

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained, Poorly-drained

Aspect

East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H7

Plant details

Plant type

Bogs, Herbaceous Perennial

Habit

Clump forming

Foliage

Deciduous

Height

0.5-1 metres

Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Time to full height

2-5 years

Suggested uses

Cottage and informal garden

Care notes

Cultivation

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

Pruning

Flowering stems can be tidied and cut back when flowers fade, but can also be left for winter interest and wildlife habitat

Propagation

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

Pest resistance

May be susceptible to vine weevil

Disease resistance

May be susceptible to leaf spot weather damage and powdery mildews