Astilbe japonica 'Red Sentinel'

Red Sentinel False Spirea

A classic early-blooming astilbe celebrated for its vivid cherry-red flower plumes and neat, upright habit. ‘Red Sentinel’ is one of the brightest red astilbes available and is especially effective for adding strong color impact to shaded borders and woodland gardens.

Key features



Width: 18–24 in (1.5–2 ft)



Height: 20–28 in (1.7–2.3 ft)



Flower color: Bright cherry red



Bloom time: Early summer



Foliage: Dark green, glossy, finely divided



Form: Upright, clump-forming



Life cycle: Herbaceous perennial



Growing conditions



Sun: Part shade to full shade (morning sun tolerated with consistent moisture)



Soil: Moist, rich, well-drained; prefers humus-rich soils



Water: Moderate to high; soil should remain consistently moist



Hardiness: USDA Zones 4–8



Landscape use



Shade and woodland gardens



Perennial borders



Mass plantings for bold color



Along streams and ponds



Containers in shaded locations



Notes



Excellent cut flower



Generally deer resistant



One of the most reliable red astilbes



Glossy foliage remains attractive after bloom



Performs best with steady moisture

Plant type

Perennial

Height

24"

Width

18"

Hardiness zones

3–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Early Summer, Late Spring

Flower color

Red

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Border, Container, Mass Planting

Shape

Broad Upright, Clump

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No