Astilbe SHORT N' SWEET RASPBERRY astilbe (japonica group)

RASPBERRY is another astilbe variety bred by Dutch perennial specialist Jan Verschoor and belongs to the SHORT N’ SWEET series which comprises of compact, low growing varieties with beautifully coloured, sweetly scented flowers. Patent No. PP27701 was granted in 2017.

RASPBERRY is a hybrid astilbe a. arendsii x a. japonica with soft raspberry pink flowers composed in fluffy plumes atop 30-40 cm tall stems. Blooming begins in late June and may repeat flowering until August. Plants are compact and mound-forming. Deciduous leaves are medium green, divided, serrated at margins, and healthy.

Grow astilbe in humus-rich soil. If planted in boggy or regularly watered bed they can sit in full sun, too, otherwise choose a semi-shaded or shaded location. They are water loving plants and require a good dose of nutrients to look their best. They will not grow in chalky or clay soil that dries out in summer.

For best results divide the clumps every 3-4 years removing old and dead rhizomes in early spring. Also in the spring remove old leaves and last year’s flowers. If grown in poor soil you may need to cut back the entire plant after flowering to get rid of spent stems and tired foliage in order to encourage growth of new leaves. A dose of a liquid fertilizer is recommended. Fully hardy to about -34°C (USDA zone 4).

Last update 15-06-2022