Delft Lace Astilbe

• Growth Rate: This astilbe has a moderate growth rate, establishing itself over one to two growing seasons. Once established, it forms a dense clump that will steadily grow larger over time.

• Mature Growth: At maturity, 'Delft Lace' reaches a height of 24-36 inches with a spread of 18-24 inches. Its upright flower plumes rise above the foliage, creating a dynamic vertical element in the garden.

'Delft Lace' attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, making it an excellent choice for pollinator-friendly gardens. While not a major food source for larger wildlife, its nectar-rich blooms are a favorite among beneficial insects.

This deciduous perennial thrives in the spring and summer, going dormant during the winter months. It re-emerges each spring, providing consistent color and beauty year after year.

Shaded perennial borders

Woodland gardens

Moist areas along paths or streams

Container gardening (with ample moisture)

Cut flower gardens (for both fresh and dried arrangements)

The deeply cut, fern-like leaves of 'Delft Lace' are a standout feature. They emerge in a beautiful blue-green color, later transitioning to a darker green with burgundy highlights. The finely textured foliage adds elegance and structure to the garden, even after the blooms have faded.

Flowering Season: 'Delft Lace' blooms in mid to late summer, offering a show of coral-pink flower plumes that rise above its deeply textured foliage. The flowers last for several weeks, making it a focal point during the peak of the growing season.

Flower Description: The coral-pink flower plumes of 'Delft Lace' are tall and feathery, creating an airy, cloud-like effect in the garden. These flowers are held on sturdy stems and can grow up to 24 inches above the foliage, making them stand out against the contrasting background of its blue-green, burgundy-tinged leaves.

Pruning is minimal for 'Delft Lace'. Remove spent flower spikes to encourage a tidy appearance and prevent self-seeding. In late fall, cut back the foliage to the ground after it has died back for winter dormancy.

Astilbe 'Delft Lace' has moderate to high water needs, especially in warm or dry conditions. It prefers consistently moist soil, so be sure to water regularly, especially during dry spells. Avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely, as this can lead to leaf scorch.

'Delft Lace' thrives in partial shade to full shade, making it perfect for woodland or shaded garden areas. While it can tolerate some morning sun, it needs protection from the hot afternoon sun to avoid leaf damage and ensure vibrant foliage.

The flower spikes of 'Delft Lace' can be cut for use in fresh or dried flower arrangements. For drying, cut the flowers when they are fully open and hang them upside down in a cool, dry place.

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or compost. A mid-summer application of fertilizer or compost can help encourage more robust growth and additional blooms.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to help retain soil moisture, especially during dry spells, and to suppress weeds.
• Soil: 'Delft Lace' prefers rich, consistently moist, well-drained soil. It thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soil but can adapt to a range of soil conditions if kept moist.
• Disease Resistance: Astilbes are generally disease-resistant, but they may be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils. Ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogged conditions.

'Delft Lace' attracts bees and other beneficial pollinators, but no special pollination care is needed for the plant to thrive. It does not require cross-pollination to produce its flowers.

 Shade-Loving Perennials:

• Hosta – Broad, bold leaves contrast beautifully with Astilbe’s fine-textured foliage
  
• Heuchera (Coral Bells) – Colorful foliage creates a striking contrast with Astilbe’s lacy leaves and blooms
  
• Ferns (e.g., Japanese Painted Fern, Lady Fern) – Add soft, airy movement and lush greenery
  
• Brunnera macrophylla (Siberian Bugloss) – Heart-shaped, silvery foliage with delicate blue spring flowers
  
• Pulmonaria (Lungwort) – Spotted leaves and early blooms offer seasonal diversity
  
• Tiarella (Foamflower) – Compact and ornamental with foamy white flower spikes and textured leaves
  
• Dicentra spectabilis (Bleeding Heart) – Romantic spring bloomer with arching stems and heart-shaped flowers
  

 Moisture-Loving Shrubs:

• Hydrangea macrophylla – Larger bloom heads provide a dramatic backdrop to Astilbe’s airy plumes
  
• Clethra alnifolia (Summersweet) – Fragrant summer flowers and glossy foliage, thrives in moist soil
  
• Rhododendron/Azalea – Spring-flowering shrubs that enjoy similar acidity and shade
  

 Ornamental Grasses:

• Hakonechloa macra (Japanese Forest Grass) – Graceful golden mounds that enhance movement and texture
  
• Carex spp. (Sedge) – Compact, shade-tolerant grass-like plants that fill gaps beautifully