Astilbe chinensis 'Vision in Red'

Astilbe chinensis 'Vision in Red' is part of a group of recent hybrids derived from the Chinese Astilbe, selected for their compact habit, strength and moderate moisture requirements. Its small, dense panicles of bright magenta red bloom abundantly during a long summer period, above beautiful green-blue, finely cut foliage, adding charm to the edges of ponds or wet areas, as well as shady areas of the garden with ordinary, non-drying soil.

Astilbe chinensis, from the saxifrage family, is native to China, Korea and eastern Siberia. It is a rhizomatous perennial herbaceous plant that is adapted to moist and fertile soils, although it is less water-demanding than other species. The 'Vision' series of Astilbes were developed in the USA.

'Vision in Red' was selected for its compact habit and long flowering period of magnificent red. This small-sized variety slowly forms a mound that somewhat resembles a fern. This cushion-shaped clump consists of a group of leafy stems reaching a height of 60cm (24in) with a spread of 35cm (14in). The upright, slightly arching stems bear compound leaves, divided into 3 more or less strongly toothed, hairy leaflets, with a fairly dark green, glossy colour and bluish reflections. In average climates, 'Vision in Red' begins flowering in June and ends in August. The flowering is particularly abundant, with long, branched plume-like spikes, tightly packed with numerous tiny flowers. The intense magenta pink colour, redder in bud, lightens slightly at blooming and towards the end of the flowering period. It is a deciduous, very hardy plant, with the above-ground vegetation disappearing in winter and re-emerging in spring.

This 'Vision in Red' Astilbe, with its modest size, graceful appearance and richly coloured flowering, is ideally placed at the edge of borders, associated with its lovely shade companions such as ferns and Hostas. Its intense red-pink panicles add a beautiful touch of colour to the understorey, awaken north-east facing facades with Hydrangeas, and give a unique charm to the surroundings of water features, which serve as mirrors. Planted in ribbons, the 'Vision' Astilbes highlight shaded pathways in the company of Liriope muscari and saxifrages. The fern-like foliage contrasts beautifully with their opulent neighbours, such as Hostas or rhubarb, while their feathery flowering blends perfectly with that of Persicarias or bugbanes, for example. The 'Vision' Astilbes tolerate exposure to filtered sunlight and require well-moistened soil; they are robust and require very little maintenance.