Astilbe chinensis 'DIAMONDS AND PEARLS'^®

Do you remember a chart hit by Prince called “Diamonds and Pearls” from early 1990’s? I recon this would have been the impulse that gave the breeder an idea of how to name his beautiful invention. This astilbe was bred by Henricus G.J. Verduin, and patented in 2007 after almost 10 years of controlled breeding programme in Dutch town Heemskerk. PP19,092.

Diamonds and Pearls^® is a fantastic Chinese astilbe variety with large, creamy white flowers that look like pampas grass. They come out in early July on about 50 cm tall, sturdy stems that tolerate wind and rain. Leaves are mid green, deciduous, and healthy. It forms a dense, bushy clump with more and more flowers every summer.

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 15-07-2012