Colour in leaf and stem
On red-flowered astilbes the tint often reaches the stems and foliage, so the plant has presence well before it flowers.
- 'Fanal' is an Arendsii hybrid with long-lasting dark red flowers in narrow, dense plumes up to 25cm, on dark stems with red-green leaves. It flowers in early summer and the faded plumes decorate the border deep into autumn. It has the RHS Award of Garden Merit.
- 'Montgomery' is a Japonica hybrid of around 70cm with finely cut, dark bronze-red foliage and small, fluffy dark red flowers in early and high summer. It also holds the Award.
- 'Purpurlanze' is a form of the Chinese astilbe and is more purple-red than true red.
Choosing the position
In deep shade, dark red can look almost brown. Give red astilbes dappled shade, ideally with morning or evening sun, or plant them beside paler plants to lift them. The damp soil that astilbes need is the norm in most of Ireland, but the RHS warns that waterlogged ground is no better.
Making it last
Combine early and late varieties to extend the display. Mulch in spring to keep the roots cool, and divide clumps when they become crowded. Dry weather is the main danger, so water deeply and seldom rather than little and often, particularly in the first summer after planting.
Animals
Astilbe is not listed as toxic in the ASPCA's plant database, although a large amount of any plant may cause stomach upset.
