Astilbe chinensis 'Vision in Red' (PBR)
ABOUT
The Astilbe chinensis 'Vision in Red', commonly known as Chinese Astilbe, is a perennial plant known for its striking and ornamental features. It is characterized by its deep, bronzy-green foliage that creates an attractive mound of lacy leaves. The leaves have a serrated edge and can sometimes have a glossy appearance, contributing to the plant's overall textured and lush impression. One of the most distinctive aspects of the Chinese Astilbe 'Vision in Red' is its tall, plume-like flower spikes. The flowers are a rich, reddish-purple color, creating a bold and vibrant display throughout its blooming period. These feathery plumes emerge on top of sturdy, upright stems that rise above the foliage, giving the plant a layered look that adds depth and interest to garden settings. The blossoms not only contribute to the aesthetic appeal of this plant but also attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees. Chinese Astilbe 'Vision in Red' offers a delightful splash of color in shaded garden areas, where its deep hues can stand out against the green backdrop of foliage plants. It has a clump-forming habit, with its overall growth resulting in a dense and robust appearance that becomes a focal point in any landscape design. Overall, this variety of Astilbe is celebrated for its ease of care and dramatic contribution to garden color schemes.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Chinese Astilbe, False Goat's Beard, False Spirea
Common names
Astilbe chinensis 'Vision in Red' (PBR)
ToxicityTo humans
Chinese Astilbe is generally considered non-toxic to humans. Therefore, it should not cause any poisoning symptoms if ingested, and no severe consequences are typically associated with consuming any part of this plant.
To pets
Chinese Astilbe is also generally considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. It is not known to cause poisoning symptoms if pets ingest parts of the plant, and there should be no severe toxic consequences associated with its consumption by animals.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage: Astilbe 'Vision in Red' has deep green foliage that adds texture and color to the garden even when not in bloom.
- Beautiful Flowers: It produces striking plumes of reddish-purple flowers that can add a splash of vibrant color to any garden.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant is well-suited for shady areas where many other plants struggle to thrive.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it is relatively easy to care for and does not require constant attention.
- Long Blooming: The blooms last for several weeks, providing a long-lasting display of color in the summer.
- Attracts Wildlife: The flowers can attract butterflies and other pollinators to the garden.
- Drought Resistant: Astilbe 'Vision in Red' is somewhat tolerant of dry conditions, although it prefers moist soils.
- Deer Resistant: It is typically resistant to browsing by deer, which can be particularly beneficial in areas where deer are a common problem.
- Good for Cut Flowers: The floral plumes make excellent cut flowers for indoor arrangements.
- Winter Interest: In winter, the spent flower stalks and seed heads can provide visual interest and texture to the landscape.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Astilbe 'Vision in Red' can be used in dried flower arrangements. Once the blooms have faded, they can be cut and dried to retain their structure and color for indoor decorations.
- This variety of astilbe can serve as a natural dye source. The deep red flowers can potentially be used to dye textiles or paper.
- The textural contrast of astilbe leaves can be used in art projects, such as leaf printing, where the intricate leaf patterns can serve as stamps.
- 'Vision in Red' can be utilized for educational purposes in horticulture programs, showcasing plant breeding and cultivar development.
- The plant's resistance to deer makes it a suitable candidate for bordering forested areas where deer are common, without concern for significant grazing.
- In ponds or waterside gardens, astilbe can be planted to stabilize the banks and minimize soil erosion with its fibrous root system.
- Astilbe 'Vision in Red' can be used as a living mulch. Its dense foliage can cover soil to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- It can be featured in sensory gardens for its textured foliage and fluffy flowers that provide a unique tactile experience.
- This variety can serve as a natural indicator of soil moisture levels due to its preference for moist conditions; wilting may indicate the need for watering.
- In photography and painting, astilbe 'Vision in Red' provides a vibrant and textured subject matter, suitable for practicing techniques that capture color and form.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Astilbe is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Plant Symbolism- Persistence and patience: Astilbes, including the 'Vision in Red', generally bloom in shady conditions where other plants may not thrive, symbolizing the ability to endure and remain steadfast even in less than ideal circumstances.
- Romance and commitment: With its rich red plumes, 'Vision in Red' can express deep romantic feelings and a commitment to passion and emotion in one's life.
- Elegance and beauty: The feathery, soft appearance of the 'Vision in Red' flowers is often associated with a sense of sophistication and timeless beauty.
- Hope and positive energy: Being a plant that can brighten up the shady parts of gardens, Astilbe 'Vision in Red' symbolizes hope and the presence of positivity even in darker times.
WaterFalse Spirea prefers consistently moist soil and should be watered thoroughly once a week, with more frequent watering during hot, dry periods. Use enough water to ensure the soil is moist at least 1 inch below the surface. In general, this might mean providing around 1 to 1.5 gallons per week, although this can vary based on soil type and weather conditions. Ensure the plant has adequate drainage to prevent root rot. During the winter months, reduce watering as the plant’s growth slows down and its water requirements decrease.
LightFalse Spirea thrives best in partial shade to filtered sunlight. It should be planted in a spot where it receives morning sunlight and is protected from the harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch the foliage. An ideal location would offer bright, indirect light for most of the day, ensuring the leaves can photosynthesize efficiently without being damaged by too much direct exposure.
TemperatureFalse Spirea is hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as -30°F and as high as 80°F. However, the ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 70°F, which promotes healthy growth and bloom. It’s important to protect the plant from extreme heat by ensuring it has partial shade and adequate moisture.
PruningFalse Spirea benefits from pruning to remove spent flowers and to shape the plant. Pruning should be done immediately after blooming to encourage a second flush of flowers. Pruning in late winter or early spring can also help maintain the plant's form and promote vigorous growth. Remove any dead or damaged stems to maintain the health and appearance of the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilChinese Astilbe prefers a rich, moist soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite can create the ideal conditions, ensuring good drainage and fertility. Mulching helps retain moisture.
RepottingChinese Astilbe doesn't require frequent repotting and can thrive in the same pot for several years. It's best to repot every 3-4 years, or when it outgrows its current container.
Humidity & MistingChinese Astilbe enjoys high humidity levels; a range of 60-80% is ideal. Regular misting can help maintain the necessary humidity if grown indoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep in moist soil; partial shade.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade; keep soil moist.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleAstilbe chinensis 'Vision in Red', more commonly known as Astilbe or False Goat's Beard, begins its life cycle when the seeds or divisions are planted in the garden, preferably in spring or early summer. The plant then undergoes vegetative growth, where fern-like foliage develops and becomes established. This perennial enters a flowering stage in mid to late summer, boasting plume-like, reddish-purple flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. After blooming, the flowers eventually fade and seed heads may form if the flowers are not deadheaded. In autumn, the plant's above-ground foliage dies back with the onset of colder temperatures, while the root system enters a period of dormancy through the winter. The plant regenerates from its rootstock with the return of warmer spring weather, beginning a new growth cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
The Astilbe chinensis 'Vision in Red', commonly known as Chinese Astilbe, is typically propagated by division, which is best done in the spring or fall. To propagate by division, carefully lift the clump of the plant from the ground using a garden fork or spade. Once lifted, use a sharp knife or spade to divide the clump into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has at least one shoot and a portion of the root system. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were originally growing, spacing them about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the newly planted divisions well to help establish them. This method of propagation allows gardeners to create new plants that are true to the parent plant and can help rejuvenate older clumps that may have become woody or less vigorous.
