Astilbe 'Delft Lace'

Astilbe 'Delft Lace': Blue-Green Lace on Ruby Stems

Waxy blue-green leaves on red stems, soft apricot-pink plumes and burgundy tints in fall. 'Delft Lace' looks good before it blooms, while it blooms and after it blooms. THREE SEASONS, ONE PLANT, NO EXCUSES.

Plant Characteristics:

• Botanical Name: Astilbe hybrid
• Common Name: False Spirea, Astilbe
• Height: 65–80 cm (26–31 in) in bloom
• Spread: 45–50 cm (18–20 in)
• Flowers: Deep salmon-pink buds opening to soft apricot-pink plumes on reddish stems
• Bloom Time: Midsummer to late summer (July to August)
• Foliage: Finely cut, waxy, blue-green leaves on red stems, with burgundy tints in fall
• Features: Multi-season foliage interest, red seed heads after bloom

Where to Plant: Use it in a part-shade border where you want foliage that earns its keep all season. It does well in damp spots, including the moist clay many city gardens are built on, and makes a good mass planting in high, dappled shade.

Companion Plants: Plant 'Delft Lace' in a moist, shady bed that shows off its dark, blue-tinged leaves and salmon-pink plumes. Trillium erectum opens maroon-red flowers at 20 to 40 cm in April and May. Heuchera FOREVER® Red adds bright red foliage at 15 to 20 cm. Hosta 'Brother Stefan' brings thick, gold-centred leaves at 45 to 55 cm. Carex 'Evergold' edges the bed at 30 to 45 cm with arching cream-striped blades.

Plant Care: Plant in part shade in rich, evenly moist soil. Add compost at planting and mulch to keep the roots cool. Water during dry spells, especially in the first year. Astilbes don't like to dry out. Leave the red seed heads standing for late-season interest. Cut back in late fall or early spring. Divide every three to four years in spring if the clump starts to thin in the centre.

History: 'Delft Lace' was bred in Zuidwolde, the Netherlands, by Henricus Holtmaat from open-pollinated seed in 1998, and was selected in 2001 for its colour and foliage. Its parents were unnamed astilbe hybrids, which is why it's sold simply as an Astilbe hybrid.

Final Thoughts: Plant it in moist shade and enjoy the red seed heads after the flowers fade. Deer move on. THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING.