Astilba: varieties, peculiarities of cultivation and planting

Astilba is a popular perennial, blooming from the beginning of summer to its middle. Inflorescences in the form of panicles have a variety of colors - from white and light pink to dark red and purple. The wild species of Astilba have only two species that are found in the Far East of Russia, in East Asia and North America. The plant is extremely cold-resistant. This property was adopted by its wild relatives and cultivated astilba, which varieties can tolerate very cold winters. The name this beautiful perennial has received from Greek words, which means "lack of brilliance".

Astilba: plant varieties

Inflorescences perennials have a different form - pyramids, rhombus or panicles. Very delicately look drooping clusters of flowers. In addition, they have a different density. The more inflorescences are denser, the more attractive and decorative is the appearance of astilba. Grades are usually monochrome, but there are also some in which several colors and shades are simultaneously present on one bush (Montgomery, White Wings and others). In accordance with the structure of the inflorescence, the species of this perennial are divided into several groups - pyramidal, rhombic and paniculate.

The timing of flowering in different varieties is also different. There are early varieties of Astilbe (bloom before the beginning of July), medium (bloom in the middle of summer) and late (from late August to late September). All of them are resistant to cold, diseases, pests and waterlogging of soils. Illumination is the main thing to which astilba is sensitive. Grades obtained by breeding did not cease to like constant sparse sun rays, as well as their wild relatives. The open sun, too, does not interfere with growth. But a thick shadow can interfere with abundant flowering.

In brief, we list the main varieties. Arend's hybrids are derived from David's astilba, they have very high bushes and dark leaves. Hybrid astilbes are most often characterized by a drooping form of inflorescences (a variety called "straussussfeder"). Japanese - very short, but powerful. Good for group compositions and alpine slides. Lemuel's hybrids are named for their creator, there are about twenty varieties.

Growing Astilba: Features

The most important thing for a gardener who decided to cultivate this plant is to rule out the possibility of a long-term drought. Watering twice a day will ensure maximum hydration. Fertile soil will contribute to the formation of a dense and beautiful bush. It is desirable to sprinkle the upper part of the rhizome with sawdust - this will prevent the drying and overheating of this area. Planting of astilba is carried out in pits up to thirty centimeters wide. It is desirable to add mineral fertilizers, bone meal or ash to the hole. Will not hurt and a little humus. Astilbs have high resistance to transplants. Even if this is done during flowering, the plant will not be harmed. Due to this property it is possible to buy blossoming astilba in the horticultural market - this will help to avoid misunderstandings with the definition of the variety.