Dark Side of the Moon Astilbe

You don’t need to travel to the dark side of the moon to find a beautiful Astilbe with chocolatey-brown leaves and pollinator-attracting blooms. At 24-28 inches wide and 22 inches tall, the compact Dark Side of the Moon Astilbe is an ideal choice for sunny and shady gardens alike. The new leaves of the Dark Side of the Moon Astilbe emerge yellow with a dark margin and gradually fade into a rich, deep purply brown, adding contrast especially when planted near bright chartreuse and green foliage in a garden bed or planter. In mid to late summer, the Dark Side of the Moon Astilbe grows tall, wispy panicles topped with hundreds of dainty mulberry buds that open into lavender blossoms. This low-maintenance perennial loves water and benefits from a decent layer of mulch and easy access to a water source.

Astilbes are adaptable to different lighting conditions. The Dark Side of the Moon Astilbe grows best in light shade to dappled sun, especially in warmer and drier climates. While Astilbe can grow in full shade, you may experience less vigorous blooms. Another benefit of Astilbe is its resistance to deer and rabbits, allowing it to be planted near wooded areas. This low, mounding herbaceous perennial requires little more than an early spring trim and regular watering throughout the growing season. Astilbe also makes for a beautiful and unique cut flower. 

Dark Side of the Moon Astilbe Care

Astilbes grow best in rich, moist soil. To plant, dig a hole that is twice the width and of equal depth as the root ball. Amend your soil as needed to ensure proper drainage. The Dark Side of the Moon Astilbe needs regular watering, especially in the hottest and driest months. After allowing the top inch or so to dry, water Astilbe deeply, encouraging the plant to grow stronger, deeper roots. To keep the soil moist, add 2-3 inches of mulch around the base of Astilbe in the spring. Like many other perennials, this Astilbe will benefit from an application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the early spring.

As an herbaceous perennial, the Dark Side of the Moon Astilbe may die back to the ground in the winter. Avoid cutting the plant back until early spring, just before new foliage emerges. The spent foliage will protect the plant from extreme cold temperatures. Once the flower spike has finished blooming, it can be cut back to keep your Astilbe looking neat and tidy. When planting in containers, always choose a pot that is larger than the root ball to allow the plant some room to grow, and use a high-quality potting soil. Astilbe may require more frequent water in containers than when planted in a garden bed. If the leaf edges are becoming brown and crispy, the plant may not be getting enough water. 

Dark Side of the Moon Spacing

Plant the Dark Side of the Moon Astilbe 24-28 inches away from other plants. When mass planting, that distance can be a bit less to allow them to grow together. In a container, be sure to choose a large one with drainage holes.

Dark Side of the Moon Astilbe Information