Astilbe 'Amerika' features graceful, rich pink flower spikes accented against fine deep green leaves for illuminating shady borders. It enjoys moderate to wet conditions and is not fussy about soil. Even does well planted by waterside. 'Amerika' has 24" stems that are topped by 8-12" plumes smothered with tiny flowers, beautifully set off by attractive glossy foliage. It is particularly fond of shady spots, where brilliant color is often lacking, but will tolerate some sun.
Size: 2-3 eye • Hardiness: Zones 4-8 Common: Astilbe • Family: Saxifragaceae Botanical: Astilbe x arendsii 'Amerika' Height: 24 - 28" • Spacing: 24" Bloomtime: Early-Mid Summer Flower: Rich Pink Flowers • Foliage: Glossy Green Foliage Exposure: Part shade to full shade Pests: No serious insect or disease problems. Foliage decline (leaf margins brown up), sometimes with significant dieback, may occur in hot summers and/or periods of drought if soils are not kept moist. Notes: Astilbe 'Amerika' will work well in borders, as a mass planting or even as a cut flower. Prefers rich moist soils that do not dry out. Keep well-watered. Apply fertilizer in spring and midsummer. Spent flower heads can be removed if desired or allowed to remain for late season interest. Divide overgrown clumps in spring or fall. They are very easy to grow and will grow and bloom even during the hot summers! Just give them a drink every once in a while and they will grow healthy and strong. 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. Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soils in part shade to full shade. Prefers moist, humusy, organically rich soils. Soils must not be allowed to dry out. If regularly watered, foliage will usually remain attractive throughout the growing season. A summer compost mulch helps retain soil moisture. Many gardeners leave the flower stalks in place after bloom because of the continuing ornamental interest of the dried seed heads. Astilbes are mainstays of shade and woodland gardens.