(Astilbe chinensis var. pumila) ah-STILL-bee chin-EN-sis Genus:  Astilbe This is a dwarf astilbe with attractive red-green leaves and reddish pink flowers in broad, dense conical groups. Its blooms appear mostly in summer. Noteworthy Characteristics:  This plant is great in damp borders, waterside beds, woodland gardens, or shady rock gardens. It's grown primarily for its striking plume-like flowers. Care:  Avoid dry, alkaline, or clay soils. Propagation:  Divide clumps in early spring. Replant immediately or pot up and plant in early summer. Problems:  Tarnished plant bug, powdery mildew, bacterial leaf spots, Cercospora leaf spots.

Overview

Height 6 in. to 12 in. Spread 6 in. to 12 in. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Fast Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium to Wet Maintenance Low Characteristics Showy Flowers, Showy Foliage, Showy Seed Heads Bloom Time Early Summer, Late Spring, Spring, Summer Flower Color Pink, Red Foliage Color Colorful/Burgundy Foliage Uses Beds and Borders Style Cottage Garden, Cut Flower, Rock Garden, Woodland Garden, Waterside Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Perennials