| Common Name | Latin Name | Plant Family |
|---|---|---|
|
|
Astilbe chinensis |
Saxifragaceae |
A first class ground cover plant, the lower-growing cultivar ‘Pumila’ is particularly recommended[233].
Cultivation & Habitat
Seed – we have no details for this species but suggest sowing the seed in a greenhouse in early spring. Only just cover the seed. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in a cold frame until they are at least 20cm tall. Plant them out in the summer, or late in the following autumn.
Division in spring. This is best done every 3 – 4 years in order to maintain the vigour of the plant[200]. Larger divisions can be planted straight into their permanent positions whist smaller clumps are best potted up and kept in a cold frame until they are growing away well.
Prefers a rich garden soil, but succeeds in most soils so long as they stay reliably moist in the summer[1, 233]. Requires a wet or moist peaty soil in sun or partial shade[187], growing well under shrubs[233]. Prefers a pH in the range 5.5 to 7[200]. Prefers partial shade[200], especially if the soil is on the dry side[233].
Plants are hardy to about -20¡c[187].
Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer or rabbits[233].
There are some named varieties, selected for their ornamental value[233].
E. Asia – E. China, Japan, Korea.
Become ungovernable, break the chains of the matrix; grow and forage your own food and medicine.
*None of the information on this website qualifies as professional medical advice. Take only what resonates with your heart and use your own personal responsibility for what’s best for you. For more information [brackets] [000], see bibliography.