Astilbe ‘Chocolate Shogun’ is a stunning compact, clump-forming, perennial which forms a mound of deep chocolate brown divided leaves with a purple tint. From this, short maroon stems rise bearing beautiful pink-blushed feathery plumes. These flower plumes are made up of hundreds of densely packed tiny flowers. Its plumes fade to a cream colour in autumn/winter. This plant reaches a mature height of 75 cm and spread ofĀ 60 cm. This is the perfect addition to any garden due to its exceptionally long flowering period, flowering all summer and autumn long, along with its striking foliage. It is perfect in beds and borders, but is also excellent as a cut flower either fresh or dried. Many use it in bouquets. It is also attractive to butterflies!
Suggested Care: Astilbe ‘Chocolate Shogun’Ā should be planted in moist but well drained, rich soils, positioned in partial to full shade. It can tolerate full sun but only in areas with cool summers once adequate moisture is provided. It is important that you do not let the soils dry out, as dryness leads to a quick demise, especially in the sun. If this occurs, the leaves will develop brown, crispy margins. No deadheading is required, but you can do so if you do not like the look of the faded blooms. It is advised that you divide these plants about every 4 years to assure the maximum number of blooms.
Planting Instructions: Break up the soil well before planting and dig a hole twice the size of the pot. Remove plant from the pot by tapping the rim of the pot in āup side downā position. However, do not pull the plant from the pot. Firm soil after planting and water regularly for the first month.