Astilbe 'Diamond'

Astilbe x arendsii 'Diamond': Pure White Light for the Shade

Crisp and luminous, Astilbe 'Diamond' brightens shady borders with elegant plumes of pure white blooms held high above rich green foliage. Flowering in early to mid-summer, its upright form and sparkling bloom offer a clean, refreshing contrast to deeper greens and bold-leaved companions. A classic Arendsii hybrid, this cultivar brings refined structure, excellent flower coverage, and reliable performance to woodland and part-shade plantings.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 60–75 cm
• Spread: 45–60 cm, forming an upright, clumping habit
• Flower Colour: Bright white
• Flowering Period: Early to mid-summer
• Foliage: Dark green, sharply divided, fern-like
• Sunlight Requirements: Part shade to full shade
• Soil Requirements: Moist, rich, well-drained soil

Uses and Benefits: Astilbe 'Diamond' is perfect for illuminating shaded borders, softening paths, or adding contrast to darker foliage in woodland settings. Its pristine bloom and tidy form create a sense of calm and order in naturalistic or formal designs. A strong performer in consistently moist soil, it also makes a striking cut flower and is reliably deer-resistant.

Companion Plants: Pair with the dramatic, black-purple foliage of Heuchera 'Obsidian', the finely cut leaves and spring bloom of Tiarella 'Spring Symphony', and the evergreen structure of Dryopteris marginalis for a layered, texture-rich combination that plays with light and shade in subtle, sophisticated ways.

Care Instructions: Plant in part to full shade with humus-rich, consistently moist soil. Water regularly, especially during summer heat. Mulch annually to retain moisture and cool the roots. Remove spent flowers for a clean look or leave them for texture. Divide every 3–4 years in early spring to maintain plant health and form.

History: 'Diamond' is a refined white selection from the Arendsii group, long prized for its upright growth, consistent bloom, and timeless elegance in shade gardens. It remains a favourite for gardeners seeking a bright, classic bloom in low-light areas.

Final Thoughts: Clear, crisp, and composed, Astilbe 'Diamond' is a beacon in the shaded garden—offering light, structure, and graceful simplicity when and where it’s needed most.