Color Flash Astilbe
Color Flash Astilbe (Astilbe x arendsii 'Beauty of Ernst')
Color Flash Astilbe (Astilbe x arendsii 'Beauty of Ernst') is a striking shade perennial known for its bold, multi-season foliage and rich pink summer plumes. Also called Color Flash Astilbe, this variety delivers vibrant color from spring through fall, making it an ideal focal point for woodland gardens, moist borders, and container plantings.
Distinctive Features
This clump-forming perennial grows 20 to 24 inches tall and wide, producing finely cut, fern-like foliage that emerges green in spring, matures to deep purple with chartreuse and bronze tones in summer, and finishes the season with fiery red fall color. In midsummer, tall plumes of raspberry-pink flowers rise above the foliage, attracting pollinators and adding vertical texture.
Growing Conditions
- Sun Exposure: Partial to full shade; tolerates morning sun with afternoon protection
- Soil Type: Moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil
- Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
- Water Needs: High; requires consistent moisture
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 8
Ideal Uses
- Focal point in woodland or shade gardens
- Accent in moist borders or rain gardens
- Mass plantings for season-long foliage color
- Cut flower gardens for vertical summer interest
- Containers for shaded patios and porches
Low Maintenance Care
- Water regularly to maintain even soil moisture
- Mulch to conserve moisture and protect roots
- Deadhead spent flowers to keep appearance tidy
- Cut back foliage in late fall or early spring
- Divide clumps every 3 to 5 years to maintain vigor
Why Choose Color Flash Astilbe
- Unique foliage with multi-season color change
- Bright pink plumes add midseason flower interest
- Thrives in shady, moisture-retentive sites
- Attracts pollinators and resists deer
- A colorful, low-maintenance focal point for shaded areas
Color Flash Astilbe delivers vibrant foliage and summer blooms in one tidy package, making it a dynamic focal point for shade gardens, woodland paths, and moisture-rich borders.
OUR SIZING
Not sure what 2 inch B&B or 30 Gallon Clump really means? This guide breaks down all our plant size terms so you know exactly what to expect, whether you're ordering online or picking up at our nursery. From caliper measurements to container volumes, we've decoded our system to help you shop with confidence.
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