About

Astilbe chinensis var. pumila is a low-growing perennial that reaches approximately 25 cm in height. It features dark green, finely dissected foliage that may exhibit a reddish hue. In late summer, this plant produces dense spikes of soft, rosy-mauve flowers.

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
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Clay, Loam
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Plant type
Bogs, Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.1-0.5 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Rock garden, Patio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens
Native to
Tibet

Care notes

Cultivation
Good for moist or boggy situations. Are not suitable for soils that dry out.
Pruning
Cut back after flowering
Propagation
Propagate by division in late winter or early spring, pot divisions under glass and plant out in late spring.
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to powdery mildews