Astilbe x arendsii 'August Light' #1(red)

Photo and Description Credit: Walters Gardens

Available April-May 2023

One of the latest red Astilbes to bloom beginning in midsummer. Long, scarlet red, feathery plumes dance above the bushy clump of dissected, green foliage which emerges deep red in spring. Excellent cut flower. Arendsii group.

A member of Astilbe x arendsii(Hybrid Astilbe/False Spirea). A group of hybrids developed by famed German nurseryman George Arends. Includes crosses between A. chinensis var. davidii with A. astilboides, A. japonica, and A. thunbergii. The resulting hybrids comprise over 95% of all Astilbe sold in the USA.

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.

Zone 4-9

Height 28 inches

Space 15-24 inch

Partial to Full Sun

Does not like to dry out

Mass Planting, cut flower, container planting

Rabbit and moose resistant

Attracts pollinators