After several weeks of rain the Wilson Display Garden has flourished with growth. One of the most pretty plants this month is Astilbe X arendsii or False Spirea.

Astilbe are excellent plants for shady, moist conditions. The dissected leaves are attractive even when the plant is not in flower. Foliage colors range from green to bronze-green.

When in bloom, late spring to early summer, flower colors range from red, pink, white or lavendar. Individual flowers are small but are arranged in dense panicles that are 6 inches long. The flowers are long lasting in the garden. They can also be used as cut flowers if harvested when flowers are half open.

The plant grows to 2-3 feet in height. Plant Astilbe in partial shade with fertile, organic soil. Requires moist soil so summer irrigation is necessary during drought. If planted in a shaded, moist site southern gardens can successful grow Astilbe.

Several cultivars of Astilbe are available. 'Deutschland' is a compact grower and quite vigorous with white flowers. 'Europa' grows 24 inches tall with pale pink flowers. 'Red Sentinel' has rich, intense red flowers with finely-cut reddish green foliage.

Astilbe has relatively few insect or disease problems. Powdery mildew and wilt have been reported. Japanese beetles and spider mites are the most serious insect problems.

Astilbe can be used as a border plant, massed around a pond or water feature. Astilbe is often grown in pots and forced into flower.

Come out and see the Wilson Display Garden in bloom at 1806 S. Goldsboro Street. .

Date Created: 6/30/03.

Updated: 8/25/03