Astilbe 'Vision in Red'

Astilbe 'Vision in Red': Moody Red Plumes Over Bronze Leaves

Dusky purple-red plumes on red stems, rising from a compact bronze mound like a glass of merlot nobody admits to pouring. 'Vision in Red' is the shade garden's after-dinner drink. SERVED NEAT.

Plant Characteristics:

• Botanical Name: Astilbe chinensis 'Vision in Red'
• Common Name: Chinese Astilbe, False Spirea
• Height: 40–50 cm (16–20 in)
• Spread: 40–45 cm (16–18 in)
• Flowers: Deep red buds opening to dusky purple-red to pinkish-red plumes on red stems
• Bloom Time: Midsummer (July to August)
• Foliage: Lacy, bronze-green, forming a compact mound
• Features: Rabbit resistant, good cut flower
• Plant Patent: USPP 11,965

Where to Plant: Its compact size suits the front of a shade border, edging along a path, or a container on a shady patio. The dark plumes and bronze leaves look rich against silver and lime foliage.

Companion Plants: Hosta 'Blue Angel' makes a broad, bold backdrop at 80 to 90 cm, and its white flowers in June and July lead right into the red plumes. Edge the bed with Heucherella 'Pink Fizz', a tidy 15 to 20 cm mound with pink flowers in early summer. Add Tricyrtis hirta for white toad lily flowers in August and September, just as the astilbe finishes. It is an easy shade trio with something in bloom from June to fall.

Plant Care: Plant in spring or early fall in rich soil with compost added. Part shade is best. It will take some morning sun if the soil stays moist. Water regularly in the first season. Chinese astilbes tolerate dry spells better than other types, but steady moisture gives you the best flowers and leaves. Mulch keeps the roots cool. Leave the plumes standing for winter interest or snip them off. Cut back in late fall or early spring. Divide in spring every three to four years.

History: 'Vision in Red' was bred by Wim van Veen in Noorden, the Netherlands, from a 1993 cross between two older Chinese astilbes, 'Purpurkerze' and the dwarf 'Pumila'. It received a US plant patent in 2001.

Final Thoughts: The bees will RSVP early while the deer decline. Plant a few and pour yourself something to match. CHEERS TO THE SHADY SIDE.