Astilbe ‘Chocolate Cherry’ (Chinese Astilbe)

Brightening up the shade garden, Astilbe ‘Chocolate Cherry’ (Chinese Astilbe) is a tall rhizomatous clump-forming perennial boasting profuse cherry-red flower plumes held upright atop chocolate-red stems. Blooming in mid to late summer, each plume consists of hundreds of densely packed tiny flowers opening in succession for a long-lasting floral display. The blossoms rise gracefully above an impressive mound of fern-like, dark green leaves adorned with chocolate and red overtones. The refined foliage remains attractive all season long under satisfactory growing conditions. Blooming when other plants are beginning to wane, this robust grower is relatively trouble-free, requires little maintenance, is heavy shade tolerant, and attracts butterflies but is deer and rabbit resistant. The perfect perennial for a shady border with dappled light.

• Grows up to 36-48 in. tall (90-120 cm) and spreads 24-36 in. (60-90 cm).
• Part shade to full shade lover, this Astilbe thrives in organically rich, evenly moist, well-drained soils. Don’t let the soil dry out! Mulch should be added to reduce water evaporation and maintain moisture. Drought tolerant once established.
• May be planted in full sun in areas with cool summers with adequate moisture. In hot summer areas, shade is important.
• Provides a spectacular flower show, whether planted in perennial borders, woodland gardens, near streams and ponds, or in containers. Plant in groups for better visual effects. Excellent ground cover or edging plant for shady areas.
• Plumes make excellent fresh-cut flowers and are great for drying in natural bouquets.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for powdery mildew.
• No deadheading is required unless you do not like the look of the faded flower stalks. If allowed to remain, the dried seedheads will provide additional interest later in the season.
• Should be divided about every 4 years to assure the maximum number of blooms.
• Propagate by division.