Fanal Astilbe

Astilbe arendsii Fanal is a real showstopper when in bloom, particularly in mass plantings, making a striking display with its fantastic foliage and bloom color. This is a colorful, shade-loving perennial, producing deep crimson-red, plume-like flowers in mid-summer, arched over delicate, fern-like foliage that has a mounded habit. Butterflies and other pollinators are attracted to Fanal Astilbe. Fanal Astilbe is cold hardy down to zone 3, and is both deer and rabbit resistant. It will bloom even under the darkest shade canopies and is sure to brighten up any spot. The deep crimson-red plumes are lovely in cut-flower arrangements. It grows to 2 feet in height and width. Fanal Astilbe Care Fanal Astilbe grows best in partial to full shade locations. It prefers moist, well-draining, rich soil with plenty of organic content. Woodland environments are the perfect location with naturally rich, acidic soil. Water well when newly planted and keep the soil evenly moist astilbes will naturally spread in moist soils. Fanal Astilbe truly is a minimal-maintenance perennial. Prune back in early spring, after the last frost. You can trim off dried flowers at the end of the blooming cycle. The foliage will naturally die back to the ground once winter arrives, and new, fresh growth will reemerge in the spring. It's beneficial to add a thin layer of organic compost as a topdressing in spring, followed by a 1-2 layer of shredded leaves or natural bark mulch to maintain consistent soil moisture. Fanal Astilbe Spacing This richly colored beauty is stunning when mass planted in a woodland or shade garden. When planting in drifts, space plants approximately 2 feet apart, so that the foliage between plants barely touches to provide adequate airflow.