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BogsHerbaceous Perennial

Astilbe chinensis var. pumila

dwarf Chinese astilbe

Compact, clump-forming perennial about 25cm in height, with dark green, deeply cut leaves often tinted red, and dense, fluffy spikes of rosy-mauve flowers, produced in late summer

Synonyms
Astilbe chinesis 'Pumila'
Astilbe pumila
see moreAstilbe chinensis minima
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Red
Summer Purple Pink Green Red
Autumn Green Red
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Saxifragaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus

Astilbe are rhizomatous herbaceous perennials with attractive, usually ternately divided leaves and erect plume-like panicles of tiny white, pink or purple flowers in summer. The old, brown flower-heads remain attractive in autumn

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Tibet

How to grow

Cultivation

Good for moist or boggy situations. Are not suitable for soils that dry out.

Propagation

Propagate by division in late winter or early spring, pot divisions under glass and plant out in late spring.

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Rock garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Cut back after flowering

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews

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