japonica ‘Peach Blossom’ has apricot-pink full, airy plumes with vivid green, fern-like, semi-glossy foliage. This is really the astilbe that started it all. Introduced way back in 1903, Peach Blossom is still one of the top choices for American gardens. This perennial thrives in moist, shady locations and is popular for border plantings or alongside water areas. It is generous with its blooms, and holds its plumes nicely above its foliage. The cut flowers are excellent for bouquets and drying.
Size: 2-3 eye · Hardiness: Zones 4-9 Common: Astilbe (False Spirea) Botanical: Astilbe · Family: Saxifragaceae Height: 20-24" · Spacing: 15-18" Bloomtime: Mid-summer Flower: Fluffy plumes of apricot-pink full Foliage: Dense, dark green or bronze fern-like Exposure: Shade. Will not flower as well in deep shade. Full sun will be tolerated in cool climates if the plants are kept well watered. Pests: Slug resistant, deer resistant, resistant to walnut toxicity. Bothered by Japanese beetles and spider mites. Notes: Prefers a moist, slightly acidic, rich humus soil away from afternoon sun. Wilting and dying back can be avoided in hot, dry periods with ample irrigation. Periodically feed with a 5-10-5 fertilizer following label instructions. You can also mulch with well composted manure over Winter. Divide every 3-5 years. Attracts butterflies & hummingbirds and is a good cut flower. The flowers and foliage of the Astilbe are good for cutting and may be used in fresh floral arrangements. The flowers are good for drying. In order to keep Astilbe looking good for the next year, do not cut it back in the winter, (the old foliage helps protect the plant from winter damage), but prune in early spring. Astilbe can be used in perennial borders or shade gardens with Hostas and Ferns and alongside water areas. Planting instructions: May be planted in any well-drained soil. Dig a hole large enough to encompass the roots without bending or circling. Set the plant in place so the crown (part of the plant where the root meets the stem) is about 1-2 inches below the soil surface. Cover with soil to the original soil surface and water thoroughly.