Dark Side of the Moon Astilbe

An instant classic for the landscape! 'Dark Side of the Moon' is the only dark leafed Astilbe with purple flowers that's on the market. Rich deep chocolate burgundy leaves form an incredibly attractive mound of foliage. Dark stems hold raspberry buds that burst forth with rosy purple flowers. This performs best both for growing and flowering in full sun in the north with adequate moisture, but also grows in shade.

Growth Habits

A member of Astilbe chinensis (Chinese Astilbe). A later blooming species useful for extending the bloom season into late summer. Foliage is deeply incised, coarsely textured, and often bronze-green in color. Flowers are borne on narrow, branched panicles. As somewhat of a mounded grower, this plant will reach 20-22" tall and approximately 24" wide at maturity.

Care

Though garden performance is far superior in moist soils, members of this species are moderately drought tolerant. Astilbe's are best grown in rich, 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. If the soil dries out, the leaves will develop brown, crispy margins and will begin to drop. Fertilize Astilbe's in late spring before flowering starts. Wait to cut back the old foliage until spring; it will help protect the plant from winter damage.

Animals

All parts of the Astilbe plants are 100% safe no matter if they are simply chewed or consumed. Astilbe is a great choice for planting around hosta plants (deer and rabbit love hostas) to help hide and protect them a bit from deer!