Astilbe ('Verslilac') YOUNIQUE™ LILAC

YOUNIQUE™ is a trade name of a new astilbe series from the Netherlands. Plants from this series excel in abundant flowering and healthy foliage. YOUNIQUE™ LILAC is a variety from 2008, bred by Jan Verschoor, with dark lilac pink flowers that look like baroque hats plumes. They bloom on 25-30 cm tall stems from late June until midsummer unless tired by all-day sunlight. Leaves are rich green, divided, and healthy.

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. If grown in poor soil you may need to cut back the entire plant after flowering to get rid of spent stems and tired foliage in order to encourage growth of new leaves. A dose of a liquid fertilizer is recommended. Fully hardy to about -34°C (USDA zone 4).

Last update 01-07-2015