Chinese astilbe (Astilbe chinensis 'Purpurkerze' PURPLE CANDLE)
Astilbe chinensis 'Purpurkerze' PURPLE CANDLE offers striking dark purplish-red plumes in summer, ideal for moist, shaded borders.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
Astilbe chinensis ‘Purpurkerze’ PURPLE CANDLE is a standout herbaceous perennial prized for its dense, deep purplish-red flower plumes that rise beautifully above fern-like green foliage. As a variety of Chinese astilbe, this cultivar offers superior hardiness and slightly better tolerance to drying conditions compared to many common Astilbe hybrids. It brings essential vertical accent and rich color to deep shade gardens where few other flowering plants thrive.
This slow-spreading, rhizomatous plant forms attractive, clump-forming mounds, reaching heights up to 4 feet when in bloom during early to mid-summer. The foliage of Astilbe chinensis ‘Purpurkerze’ PURPLE CANDLE is distinctly ferny and provides a crucial textural contrast in shaded borders. Gardeners appreciate the comparatively low maintenance required by this variety, provided its moisture needs are generally met.
The unique beauty of Astilbe chinensis ‘Purpurkerze’ PURPLE CANDLE lies in its ability to anchor woodland or cottage garden scenes with reliable summer color. Its upright stems bearing thick panicles of dark flowers deliver strong vertical interest, making it a fantastic choice for rain gardens or near water features where its need for consistent moisture can be easily fulfilled.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Saxifragaceae
- Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-8
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 2-4 ft
- Spread: 1.5-2 ft
- Bloom Time: June to July
- Bloom Description: Dark purplish-red
- Sun Exposure: Part shade to full shade
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Low
How to Grow
Plant Chinese astilbe in spring or early fall in a location that receives part shade or full shade. The key to success for Astilbe chinensis ‘Purpurkerze’ PURPLE CANDLE is soil quality: aim for average, medium moisture, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. These plants thrive in humusy soil that mimics woodland conditions.
Watering is critical; do not allow the soil to dry out, especially during hot spells. Consistent moisture ensures the foliage remains attractive throughout the growing season. Applying a summer compost mulch helps significantly in retaining this essential soil moisture. This specific Chinese astilbe strain shows better drought tolerance than many relatives, but consistent watering yields the best results.
Maintenance is generally low. While removing faded flower stalks is optional—many gardeners leave them for winter interest from the dried seed heads—it can tidy the appearance if desired. Clumps of Astilbe chinensis ‘Purpurkerze’ PURPLE CANDLE may become overcrowded and require division every three to four years to maintain vigor.
Landscape Uses
Astilbe chinensis ‘Purpurkerze’ PURPLE CANDLE excels in areas where consistent moisture and shade are prevalent, making it a perfect addition to rain gardens or along the banks of ponds or streams. Its vertical stature and deep coloration make it highly effective when used in mass plantings or groupings within woodland settings.
Use this bold perennial to frame the base of large deciduous trees or in the shaded areas bordering cottage or informal borders. The ferny texture of the foliage contrasts beautifully with broad-leaved shade companions like Hostas or foliage colored Heucheras. Plant Astilbe chinensis ‘Purpurkerze’ PURPLE CANDLE in groupings of three or five for maximum impact when its dark purplish-red plumes erupt in early summer.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
Noteworthy Characteristics
Astilbe chinensis, commonly called Chinese astilbe, is clump-forming perennials which feature graceful, fern-like mounds of mostly basal, 2-3 ternately compound leaves, usually with sharply-toothed leaflets, and tiny flowers densely packed into erect to arching, plume-like flower panicles rising above the foliage on slender, upright stems. Specific epithet means of China. ‘Purpurkerze’ is a tall upright cultivar that forms a foliage mound (to 24” tall) of dark green leaves, topped by dark purplish-red flowers in thick panicles blooming in early summer atop branching stems rising to 42” tall.
Tolerances
- Rabbit
- Deer
- Heavy Shade
- Black Walnut
Potential Problems
Astilbe chinensis ‘Purpurkerze’ PURPLE CANDLE is generally resistant to serious pest or disease issues. The primary concern is foliage decline, which appears as browning leaf edges, often happening during hot summers or if the plant experiences drought stress. Though this Chinese astilbe has better drought tolerance than many other astilbes, remember that uniformly moist soils are essential for peak health. Ensure adequate watering, especially during dry spells, to keep the leaves looking fresh until fall.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Chinese astilbe suitable for?
Astilbe chinensis ‘Purpurkerze’ PURPLE CANDLE is reliably hardy in USDA Zones 4 through 8.
How large does Chinese astilbe grow?
This cultivar typically reaches a height between 2 and 4 feet, with a spread between 1.5 and 2 feet.
What sun exposure does Chinese astilbe need?
This plant prefers part shade to full shade conditions to perform best and maintain healthy foliage.
When does Chinese astilbe bloom?
Astilbe chinensis ‘Purpurkerze’ PURPLE CANDLE flowers from June into July, featuring distinctive dark purplish-red blooms.
Conclusion
Astilbe chinensis ‘Purpurkerze’ PURPLE CANDLE provides essential structure and vibrant summer color to challenging shaded landscapes, boasting low maintenance needs and good clump-forming habits. Incorporating this robust Chinese astilbe ensures reliable performance in moist, woodland-style plantings. Before planting, verify that your location falls within USDA zones 4-8 and that you can provide the necessary consistently moist soil conditions.
Companion Planting
When selecting companions for Astilbe chinensis ‘Purpurkerze’ PURPLE CANDLE, focus on plants that share its preference for moist soil and part-to-full shade. Large-leaved Hostas provide excellent textural contrast to the fine, ferny plumes of the astilbe. Consider pairing the dark purple flowers with silver or gold-leaved Hakonechloa (Japanese Forest Grass) for dramatic color separation. Ferns, especially Japanese Painted Ferns, also create a naturalistic, layered look underneath taller Astilbe chinensis varieties.
Propagation Tips
The most successful method for propagating Astilbe chinensis ‘Purpurkerze’ PURPLE CANDLE is division, which should be performed when the clumps become overcrowded, typically every 3 to 4 years. Dig up the entire clump in early spring or fall once temperatures moderate. Gently untangle or use a sharp spade to divide the root mass into sections, ensuring each new division has several healthy eyes or growing points attached to the rhizome structure. Replant the divisions immediately at the same depth they were previously growing.
