The Astilbe Fanal, brilliant red plumes and lacy foliage...

About The Astilbe Fanal

The Astilbe Fanal in the above image is from my shade garden. Can you see the deep cut lacy foliage? It is very attractive when planted alongside the shade plant Brunnera. When first planted the leaves are a deep green, but slowly turn to a green/bronze coloring.

This Astilbe forms a dense clump and the foliage falls perfectly to the ground, therefore under or in front planting is not required.

Bloom time for this hardy zone 3 perennial is from July all the way through August. The feathery plumes reach 12" high and can be dried for indoor arrangements.

How To Grow The Astilbe Fanal

The first word of warning...do not allow this perennial to dry out. For optimum performance, plant in a rich, fertile soil that is well draining. I would recommend that mulch is added every year around the base of the plant to help keep moisture in the soil. Adding peat moss when planting also helps retain moisture.

I have most of my Astilbes planted in a part shade location. I do have one planted in full sun, which really confuses me as it is thriving and already shrub-like. Very curious. Most Astilbes can withstand some morning sun.

The Fanal enjoys being divided every 3 years or so. This helps to keep the plant in its prime blooming. As this perennial has shallow roots, some gardeners wait until the crowns begin show above the soil to divide, but others simply cover the crown with additional soil and wait the 3 years. Most gardeners know that when a plant blooming begins to wane, it's time to divide.

Growing only 24" tall and 24" wide, the deep cut foliage on the Fanal grows right down to the ground, thus making for a great border plant.

Second word of warning...do not cut back in the fall. Leave the foliage for winter protection. You can prune the plant in the spring.

Who loves this vivid red blooming perennial? Hummingbirds. Who dislikes the taste of this shade plant? Deer.

Great companion plants: Hostas, Begonia or the Alternanthera Royal Tapestry.

Please visit my Site Index Page for additional annuals and perennials for your next flowerbed garden design.

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