Purperkerze Astilbe Astilbe 1 Gal

‘Purpurkerze’ astilbe is a tall upright cultivar that forms a foliage mound (to 24” tall) of dark green leaves. Dark purplish red flowers in thick panicles bloom in early summer atop branching stems rising to 42” tall. Flower color softens to lighter shades of purple with age.

Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in part shade to full shade. Prefers moist, humusy, organically rich soils. Soils must not be allowed to dry out. If regularly watered, foliage will usually remain attractive throughout the growing season. A summer compost mulch helps retain soil moisture. This Chinese astilbe variety is noted for having better sun and drought tolerance than most x arendsii hybrids. Removing faded flower stalks will not prolong bloom but may improve plant appearance, particularly if a ground cover look is desired. On the other hand, many gardeners leave the flower stalks in place after bloom because of the continuing ornamental interest of the dried seed heads. Divide clumps when overcrowding occurs (every 3-4 years).