Astilbe chinensis var. pumila is a dwarf variant with decorative fern like leaves and feathery pinky-mauve flower heads from July to September held above bright green bushy foliage.  The old brown flower-heads provide late autumn interest.  It has an RHS AGM.

As with all Astilbes the dried flowerheads fade to attractive shades of brown in the autumn providing continued winter interest.  They also make excellent cut flowers but do fade quickly.

Water well when planting out and make sure that they are not allowed to dry out as they need to be kept moist at all times, especially until established, but do not allow them to get waterlogged as they don’t like standing water.

Astilbe meaning the flower is without brilliance, which seems rather strange!

Height: 30cm

Spread: 30-45cm

Planting position: Damp soil in sun or semi shade

Form: 9cm (0.5 litre) pots