Superba Astilbe

An outstanding perennial, the Superba Astilbe is remarkable for several reasons, but first and foremost for the striking, slender flower spikes that rise to 3 or 4 feet, or exceptionally even to 5 feet in good conditions. They are narrower and more upright than we see in most other Astilbe, and an unusual and attractive shade of mauve-pink. The foliage is taller too, more open, glossy, rich dark green, with pronounced serrations along the leaf edges. Flowering is later too, from late June into August, with the flower heads remaining interesting even when they have turned beige-brown. Insects visit the flowers, collecting nectar. This plant is rather more tolerant of direct sun and drier soils than other Astilbe, although foliage may burn if it is too dry. A great choice in the background of shade plantings, by a pond or along a stream, in formal settings as well as more natural ones. A beautiful and different Astilbe that should be in every shade garden.

• Striking taller plant with upright, slender spikes of mauve-pink flowers
• Attractive dark-green foliage, more open than in other species
• Flowers in summer, after other types of Astilbe are over
• Thrives in moist soil and partial shade with other shade-loving plants
• More tolerant of dryness and direct sun than other Astilbe

The Superba Astilbe will grow in full sun in cooler zones, with sufficient soil moisture. It generally does best with some sun, avoiding direct rays in hot afternoons, and will also grow in light full shade. The best soil is moist, rich and well-drained, but wet soil is also possible if it is moving water – for example the wet ground along the edge of a stream. Left alone by deer and rabbits, it has no significant pest or disease problems. If the soil becomes too dry in summer browning of the foliage may occur, but plants normally return the next spring without problems. Generous watering and spraying of the foliage is valuable during hot, dry periods. It’s a matter of personal taste whether you remove the flower spikes once they turn brown – it is an attractive feature in more natural settings. Cut back the foliage completely in late fall – it can be left on the ground as mulch.