Astilbe simplicifolia 'Sprite'

Astilbe simplicifolia 'Sprite' is a Japanese hybrid of early flowering false spirea. From June, its pearly light pink flowers in tightly clustered, pyramid-shaped and gracefully curved panicles will brighten up the surroundings of water features, shade gardens, wet areas in the garden, or a large container kept cool on the terrace. Its feathery panicles remain very attractive as cut flowers or in dried arrangements. The foliage takes on beautiful hues in autumn.

Astilbe simplicifolia 'Sprite' is a rhizomatous perennial plant, with rounded and compact clumps of deciduous foliage in spring, dense and shiny, with toothed, dark green leaflets. It will reach a height of 40cm (16in) when in flower, and will spread to 50 to 70cm (20 to 28in). A long-lived plant, it belongs to the Saxifragaceae family.

Plant Astilbe simplicifolia in moist to damp, rich, neutral to acidic soil. This hybrid does not tolerate water shortage. The plant adapts well to clay soils if they are healthy and well amended. In nature, these plants grow in moist woodland. Daily watering will be necessary in hot summers.

Astilbe with simple leaves can easily be grown in containers, as evaporative plants, in borders, as cut flowers and dried flowers. In woodland areas, as a low hedge, and of course in flower beds. Combine them with Hostas, Ferns (Athyrium filix-femina), Arums, Cape Lilies (Schizostylis coccinea), and Meadowsweet (Filipendula) or other perennials for wet soils.