Astilbe chinensis 'Vision in Red' PP1196

• Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators are drawn to the nectar-rich flowers.
• Wildlife Resistant: Deer and rabbits typically avoid this plant due to its tough, textured leaves.

• Foliage Season: Spring to fall, with attractive foliage even when not in bloom.
• Flowering Season: Mid-summer (July to August).
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-8

• Shaded borders
• Woodland gardens
• Moist, shady areas
• Containers
• Pollinator gardens

• Color: Bronze-green, deeply cut foliage with a glossy texture.
• Form: Fern-like leaves that form a dense, mounding clump, providing attractive foliage even after flowering.

• Color: Deep burgundy-red plumes of tightly packed, feathery flowers.
• Form: Dense, upright flower spikes, creating an eye-catching, bold display.
• Bloom Time: Mid to late summer, lasting several weeks.
• Fragrance: Not fragrant.

• Planting Time: Best planted in spring or early fall when temperatures are cooler and the soil is moist.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil. Thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5-7.0).
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as in its nursery container, with the crown level with the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for airflow and mature growth.

• Timing: Deadhead spent flowers to maintain a neat appearance, though it’s not necessary for reblooming.
• Method: In late fall or early spring, cut back the foliage to the ground to encourage fresh growth for the next season.

• Watering Frequency: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Astilbes are moisture-loving plants and do not tolerate dry soil.
• Soil Moisture: Prefers evenly moist, well-drained soil. Avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely, especially in hot weather.

Prefers partial shade to full shade. In cooler climates, it can tolerate more sun, but in hot climates, afternoon shade is essential to prevent leaf scorch.

Harvesting Season: Late spring to early summer, typically June to July depending on climate

Best Time to Cut: When the flower plumes are fully formed and color is rich but before they begin to fade

Method: Use clean, sharp garden scissors or pruning shears to cut flower stems at the base in the early morning for maximum freshness

Use as Cut Flower: Excellent in fresh floral arrangements; provides rich texture and deep reddish-purple color contrast

Drying: Can be air-dried for long-lasting arrangements—hang upside down in a dry, dark, and well-ventilated area

Rebloom Potential: Deadheading after the initial bloom may encourage a light second flush of foliage or minimal rebloom, though not guaranteed

Post-Harvest Tip: Leave some plumes on the plant for late-season visual interest and winter structure

• Fertilization Time: Apply fertilizer in early spring when new growth begins and again after flowering.
• Fertilizer Type: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or enrich the soil with organic compost to boost growth and blooming.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Mulch also helps regulate soil temperature.
• Drought Tolerance: Astilbes are not drought-tolerant and need regular watering to thrive, especially in hot weather.
• Pests and Diseases: Generally pest-free, but can be susceptible to powdery mildew in overly humid or wet conditions. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.

Pollinated by bees, butterflies, and other nectar-feeding insects.

• Hostas
• Heuchera (Coral Bells)
• Ferns
• Tiarella (Foamflower)