With a very long list of superior qualities, Pumila Astilbe has been designated a Missouri Botanical Garden Plant of Merit winner. This tough-as-nails little beauty stands up to bad soil and low water conditions. Soft, lilac plumes appear over ferny foliage in mid to late summer and early fall. An excellent ground cover that tolerates drier conditions than other Astilbes. Long-lived perennial.

Pumila’s compact foliage makes it a top choice for containers and edging. It looks lovely in shady woodland gardens. It’s fantastic in formal beds, cottage, pollinator, and cutting gardens. Astilbe works well massed or grouped in shady gardens. It makes an excellent ground cover or an edging plant as long as consistent moisture can be given. Spectacular landscapes can be created by using them in serpentine patterns. With its strong contrasting foliage, Astilbe and Hosta planted together are a match made in heaven. Astilbe attracts butterflies and other pollinators. Deer and rabbits leave Astilbe alone.

Plant in shade to part shade in soil that has been amended with organic matter. Although drought tolerant, keeping plants well watered will produce the most flowers. If plants dry out, they may go dormant. Adding a top dressing of mulch will help retain water.

A Missouri Botanical Garden Plants of Merit. Plants selected for their outstanding quality and dependable performance for the lower Midwest. They grow consistently well in Missouri, central and southern Illinois, and the Kansas City Metro area.