Astilbe Amethyst (Arendsii Hybrid)

Admired for its graceful, lilac-purple flower plumes rising elegantly above fern-like mounds of deep green foliage, Astilbe ‘Amethyst’ (Astilbe x arendsii) is an eye-catching cultivar that sizzles in the sun and glows in shade

Admired for its graceful, lilac-purple flower plumes rising elegantly above fern-like mounds of deep green foliage, Astilbe 'Amethyst' (Astilbe x arendsii) is an eye-catching cultivar that sizzles in the sun and glows in the shade. Each plume consists of hundreds of densely packed tiny flowers, each opening in succession, providing a long season of bloom from early summer on.

  • Relatively trouble-free, this Astilbe requires little maintenance, is heavy shade tolerant, and attracts butterflies, but is deer and rabbit resistant! The perfect perennial for a shady border with dappled light!
  • Growing up to 3 feet tall (90 cm), this tall cultivar provides an architectural presence and vivid colors that make it a show-stopper. The refined, fern-like foliage remains attractive all season long (under satisfactory growing conditions).
  • Part shade to full shade lover, this Astilbe thrives in organically rich, evenly moist, well-drained soils. Don't let the soil dry out! Mulch should be added to reduce water evaporation and maintain moisture.
  • May be planted in full sun in areas with cool summers with adequate moisture. In hot summer areas, shade is important.
  • Provides a spectacular flower show, whether planted in perennial borders, woodlands, near streams and ponds, or in containers. Plant in groups for better visual effects. Excellent ground cover or edging plant for shady areas.
  • Plumes make excellent fresh cuts or for drying in natural bouquets
  • No deadheading is required unless you do not like the look of the faded flower stalks. If allowed to remain, the dried seedheads will provide additional interest later in the season. Should be divided about every 4 years to assure the maximum number of blooms.

Requirements

Hardiness 3
– 8

Heat Zones 2
– 8

Climate Zones 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, A2, A3
Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Astilbe
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Season of Interest Summer (Early,Mid)
Height 2'
– 3'
(60cm
– 90cm)
Spread 1'
– 2'
(30cm
– 60cm)
Spacing 18″ (45cm)
Water Needs Average, High
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Loam
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Poorly Drained
Characteristics Dried Arrangements, Cut Flowers, Showy
Tolerance Deer, Rabbit, Wet Soil
Attracts Butterflies
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Bog Gardens, Ground Covers, Patio and Containers, Ponds and Streams
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage