Cardinal Chinese Astilbe

Cardinal Chinese Astilbe (Astilbe chinensis 'Cardinal')

Cardinal Chinese Astilbe (Astilbe chinensis 'Cardinal') is a bold, late-blooming perennial valued for its vivid red flower plumes and rugged adaptability to challenging garden conditions. With its strong texture, upright form, and reliable performance in shade or sun, this cultivar brings lasting color and structure to borders and woodland plantings.

Distinctive Features

Growing 24 to 30 inches tall and 18 to 24 inches wide, 'Cardinal' produces dense, upright plumes of bright crimson-red flowers in mid to late summer. Its coarse, dark green foliage is attractive throughout the season and more tolerant of dry soils than most other astilbes. The late bloom time extends the flowering season in shade gardens and complements earlier-blooming varieties.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade; tolerates full sun with sufficient moisture
• Soil Type: Moist, well-drained soil; tolerates clay
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
• Water Needs: Moderate to high; appreciates consistent moisture
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 8

Ideal Uses

• Focal point in shaded or woodland borders
• Mixed perennial beds with late-season color needs
• Mass plantings for bold, vertical texture
• Pollinator gardens with mid to late summer bloomers
• Rain gardens or moist, partially shaded foundations

Low Maintenance Care

• Water regularly to maintain even soil moisture
• Apply mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weeds
• Deadhead or cut back spent blooms to keep tidy
• Cut foliage to the ground in fall or early spring
• Divide clumps every 3 to 5 years to refresh growth

Why Choose Cardinal Chinese Astilbe

• Striking crimson-red plumes brighten shady areas
• Late bloom time extends the garden season
• More tolerant of dry soils than other astilbes
• Attracts bees and beneficial pollinators
• A dependable, upright focal point in woodland gardens

Cardinal Chinese Astilbe adds bold color and vertical interest in the later part of summer, making it an excellent focal point for shaded borders, woodland gardens, and moisture-loving plantings that need vibrant structure and lasting appeal.