Astilbe 'FLAMINGO'

Flamingo is a great name for an astilbe variety that with a little bit of imagination might have a lot in common with this gorgeous bird. This cultivar is a hybrid raised from a planned breeding programme led by Wim van Veen from the Netherlands, crossing astilbe x arendsii “Bressingham Ruby” and astilbe japonica “Vesuvius”. The result was born in 1992.

A brand new plant was called Flamingo for the rich and yet elegant shade of its pink flowers and upright habit resembling flamingo’s dignified posture. This variety has mid green, glossy leaves and grows very fast, soon forming a dense, free-flowering clump.

Grow astilbe in humus-rich soil. If planted in boggy or regularly watered bed they can sit in full sun, too, otherwise choose a semi-shaded or shaded location. They are water loving plants and require a good dose of nutrients to look their best. They will not grow in chalky or clay soil that dries out in summer.

For best results divide the clumps every 3-4 years removing old and dead rhizomes in early spring. Also in the spring remove old leaves and last year’s flowers. Fully hardy to about -34°C (USDA zone 4).

Last update 11-01-2012