Astilbe chinensis 'Pumila'

Pumila Pumila False Astilbe

A unique, low-growing astilbe prized for its late-summer lavender-pink flower plumes and spreading habit that makes it one of the best groundcover astilbes. Unlike most astilbes, ‘Pumila’ tolerates more sun and drier soils once established, while still thriving in shade.

Key features



Width: 24–36 in (2–3 ft) (slowly spreading)



Height: 8–12 in (0.7–1 ft) (flowers to ~12–15 in)



Flower color: Lavender-pink



Bloom time: Mid to late summer



Foliage: Dark green, finely divided



Form: Low, spreading, mat-forming



Life cycle: Herbaceous perennial



Growing conditions



Sun: Part shade to full sun (more sun tolerant than other astilbes)



Soil: Average to moist, well-drained



Water: Moderate; more drought tolerant once established



Hardiness: USDA Zones 4–8



Landscape use



Shade groundcover



Front of perennial borders



Woodland and naturalized gardens



Underplanting shrubs and trees



Mass plantings



Notes



Later bloom extends the astilbe season



Generally deer resistant



Excellent alternative to hosta in difficult shade



Spreads by rhizomes but not aggressive



Performs well in heat compared to most astilbes

Plant type

Perennial

Height

12"

Width

12"

Hardiness zones

3–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Early Summer, Late Spring

Flower color

Fuchsia, Pink

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Dark Green

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Container, Mass Planting, Rock Garden

Shape

Broad Upright, Clump

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No