Hennie Graafland Star Astilbe (Astilbe simplicifolia 'Hennie Graafland')

Hennie Graafland Star Astilbe (Astilbe simplicifolia 'Hennie Graafland') is a dwarf, mounding herbaceous perennial with shiny bronze-green foliage. Feathery panicles of star-shaped, pale rose-pink flowers bloom above the leaves in midsummer.

It flowers best in part shade and rich, moist soil. Astilbes offer deer and rabbit resistance.

Growing details

• Plant type: Herbaceous perennial
• Species origin: Japan
• Mature height: 1–1.5 feet
• Mature spread: 1.5–2 feet
• Spacing: Approximately 1.5 feet apart
• Hardiness: USDA zones 4–8
• Light: Part sun to full shade; flowers best in part shade
• Soil: Rich, moist soil
• Flowers: Feathery panicles of star-shaped, pale rose-pink flowers
• Bloom season: Midsummer
• Foliage: Shiny bronze-green leaves
• Additional traits: Deer and rabbit resistance

Care and garden use

Water regularly and keep soil moist to help prevent foliage burn or decline. Watch for powdery mildew, wilt, and Japanese beetles.

Use as an accent or in grouped plantings, woodland gardens, wildlife gardens, foundation plantings, or containers where its moisture needs can be met. Pair with heuchera, Lenten rose, or azalea for contrasting foliage and seasonal flowers.

Image credits: Photo by David J. Stang, Astilbe simplicifolia Hennie Graafland 1zz, CC BY-SA 4.0; © CANONIER, Astilbe (Prachtspiere) - panoramio, CC BY-SA 3.0. Plants naturally vary in appearance and may differ from the images shown.