Astilbe

Family: Saxifragaceae. Perennial plant with a woody rhizome.

There are now many hybrid varieties of this plant, obtained by crossing Astilbe davidii with other species and differing in the shape and color of the inflorescences. The most popular cultivars are: Rubin, Granat, Rosa Perl, Amethyst, Diamant. The leaves of this plant (compound, twice- and thrice-pinnate) give it a special grace and attractiveness. Some varieties with red inflorescences have beetroot-green leaves. The flowering period falls in July and August. Fragrant small flowers come in various colors - from white and lilac to pink and dark red. They are gathered in a panicle.

Placement: Astilbe is a garden plant but adapts well to indoor conditions. In spring and summer, and in some regions in autumn, it can be kept on balconies and open verandas. Indoors it prefers shaded locations. The air temperature should be around 17 °C. In winter, during the dormancy period, the plant should be moved to a cool room with a temperature of 5-6 °C. Astilbe tolerates light frosts well.

Care: Throughout the year, except winter, Astilbe requires moderate watering. Do not allow the root ball to dry out. In rooms with dry air daily misting should be carried out, on hot days - twice a day (morning and evening). Apply fertilizers once a month. In winter, during the dormancy period, watering should be reduced, but constantly monitor the condition of the soil - it must not dry out. For better development, Astilbe should be repotted every spring. For planting use a potting mix consisting of two parts leaf soil, one part turf soil, one part humus soil and one part sand. At the bottom be sure to arrange good drainage from broken potsherds, gravel or expanded clay.

Propagation: Astilbe can be propagated by seeds as well as by division of the clump. When transplanting, the plant should be dug up and carefully separate a part of the rhizome with shoots. An overgrown clump can be divided into several parts and planted into separate containers.