Astilbe chinensis 'Pumila'

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Common Name: Dwarf Chinese Astilbe

This popular dwarf groundcover type of Astilbe forms a low carpet of mid-green leaves topped with fuzzy, lilac pink, stiffly upright flower plumes. This is one of the last Astilbes to bloom, typically peaking from late summer into early fall. Its small stature makes it a good candidate for containers and the front of the border.

A member of Astilbe chinensis (Chinese Astilbe). A later blooming species useful for extending the bloom season into late summer. Foliage is deeply incised, coarsely textured, and often bronze-green in color. Flowers are borne on narrow, branched panicles. Though garden performance is far superior in moist soils, members of this species are moderately drought tolerant. Shorter varieties such as 'Pumila' make excellent groundcovers.

Height:

10.0 Inches

Spread:

12.0-16.0 Inches

Hardiness Zones:

4,5,6,7,8,9

Flower Color:

Pink shades

Foliage Color:

Green shades

Sunlight:

Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun) Part Shade (4-6 hrs. Direct Sun) Full Shade (< 4 hrs. Direct Sun)

Water Requirements:

Average Water Needs Consistent Water Needs

Soil Quality:

Fertile Soil Quality

Soil Chemistry:

Acidic Soil (pH < 7.0) Neutral Soil (pH = 7.0)

Bloomtime:

Late Summer Early Fall

Critter Resistant:

Deer Resistant Rabbit Resistant

Seasonal Interest:

Dried Seed Heads

Growth Rate:

Medium

Garden Style:

Patio Container Eclectic Rain Garden Rock Garden Woodland Shade

Other Features:

Border Plant Container Cut Flower Cut Foliage Dried Flower Fragrant Flowers Ground Cover

Origin:

Not Native to North America

Astilbes are long-lived perennials that are most comfortable when grown in rich soil and light shade to filtered sun. They will grow in full shade, but will not bloom as prolifically there.

Though they are easy to grow, Astilbes have one critical requirement--lots of water. Plants must have consistently moist soil; dryness leads to a quick demise, especially in sun. Increase watering as the foliage emerges and the plumes mature. If the soil dries out, the leaves will develop brown, crispy margins and will begin to drop.

Fertilize Astilbes in late spring before flowering starts. Wait to cut back the old foliage until spring; it will help protect the plant from winter damage. In the spring, if the crown has risen above soil level, gently press it back into the ground and apply some organic matter around the plant. Plants should be divided in early spring every 3-4 years to maintain vigor.

Awards

Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit -- 1993

Missouri Botanical Garden Emeritus Plants of Merit

Fun Facts

The word "Astilbe" probably means "without showiness" in Greek, referring to the original flowers from China. Today's hybrids are definitely showy!

Characteristics