Moccachino Astilbe

Moccachino Astilbe (Astilbe 'Moccachino')

Moccachino Astilbe is a shade-loving perennial showcasing striking, large white plumes arching above contrasting black-bronze foliage in early to mid summer. Its compact, upright habit adds bold contrast and refined texture to woodland edges, shaded borders, and moist sites.

Distinctive Features

Showy, arching white flower plumes rise cleanly over dark, glossy leaves for high contrast, while feathery inflorescences deliver a long, luminous show in part shade.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade; morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal, full sun only with ample moisture.
• Soil: Rich, humus-heavy, well drained soil that retains consistent moisture.
• Water: Keep evenly moist; do not allow soil to dry during bud set and bloom.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 9.
• Mature Size: 1.5 to 2.5 ft tall and 1.5 to 2 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Bright white plumes pop against dark foliage for dramatic contrast in shade.
• Woodland Borders: Pairs naturally with hostas, heucheras, and ferns.
• Mixed Shade Beds: Adds fine, feathery texture among broad-leaved companions.
• Mass Planting: Forms cohesive drifts for unified shade displays.
• Cut Flowers: Airy plumes add light, elegant structure to arrangements.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water regularly to maintain a consistently moist root zone, especially in heat.
• Pruning: Deadhead or shear spent plumes after bloom; cut back foliage in late fall or early spring.
• Fertilizing: Top-dress with compost in spring or apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
• Mulching: Maintain a 2 to 3 in mulch layer to conserve moisture and moderate soil temperature.
• Notes: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates to prevent stress and leaf scorch.

Why Choose Moccachino Astilbe?

• High Contrast Color: Large white blooms shine above black-bronze foliage.
• Refined Texture: Ferny leaves and feathery plumes soften hard lines.
• Reliable Bloomer: Consistent flowering with steady moisture and part shade.
• Design Versatility: Effective as a specimen or massed in drifts.
• Deer Resistant: Foliage is generally avoided by deer.

Plant in part shade with rich, moisture-retentive soil and keep evenly watered for the brightest plumes and freshest foliage.