Common Name: astilbe
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Family: Saxifragaceae
Zone: 4 to 9
Height: 1.50 to 2.00 feet
Spread: 1.50 to 2.00 feet
Bloom Time: June to July
Bloom Description: Magenta-red
Sun: Part shade to full shade
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Low
Flower: Showy, Good Cut
Leaf: Colorful
Tolerate: Rabbit, Deer, Heavy Shade, Black Walnut
Culture
Best grown in evenly moist, rich, well-draining soils in part shade to full shade. Tolerant of more sun in cool-summer climates. Hardy in USDA Zones 4-9.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Astilbe japonica is a herbaceous perennial found growing in rocky ravines in mountainous regions of Japan from Shizuoka Prefecture west to the island of Kyushu. Mature plants can reach 1.5-2.5' tall with a similar spread. The 6" long, doubly compound leaves are made up of multiple, toothed leaflets. Terminal, branched panicles of small, white flowers can reach 4-8" long and bloom from late spring to early summer.
Genus name comes from the Greek words a meaning without and stilbe meaning brightness in reference to the dull leaves of some species.
The specific epithet japonica means "of Japan", in reference to the native range of this species.
'Montgomery' is a robust selection of astilbe that features dense panicles of small, magenta-red flowers atop red stems. The glossy, compound foliage emerges with bronzy-red tints in spring before maturing to dark green. The main bloom period is from mid to late summer. Mature clumps will reach up to 2' tall with a similar spread.
Problems
No major pest or disease problems. Rabbits and deer tend to avoid this plant.
Uses
Woodland gardens, cottage gardens, mixed borders. Flowers are suitable for use in fresh cut arrangements.