Astilbe Dark Side of the Moon
Astilbe x arendsii 'Dark Side of the Moon'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
26 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Consistently moist soil
Humidity
Prefers high humidity environments
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Asia (parentage)
Toxicity
Non-toxic to pets and humans
The Story
Plant Bio
A clump-forming perennial noted for its deep chocolate-burgundy, fern-like foliage. In summer, it produces plumes of rosy-purple flowers on dark stems. This cultivar is distinguished by its intensely dark foliage, which holds its color well in the sun, providing a bold contrast in shade gardens and borders.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or divisions into moist soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
- Plant in part shade with rich, well-draining soil.
- Water consistently to keep soil moist, especially in dry periods.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring.
Pro Tip
Ensure consistent moisture for vibrant foliage and blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years to promote healthy growth
- Plant in shaded or partially shaded areas
Don't
- Allow soil to dry out completely ❌
- Expose to harsh, direct sunlight
- Over-fertilize, which can cause legginess
- Ignore pest signs
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Astilbe Dark Side of the Moon questions
What zones can Astilbe Dark Side of the Moon grow in?
Astilbe Dark Side of the Moon is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Astilbe Dark Side of the Moon deer resistant?
Yes — Astilbe Dark Side of the Moon is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Astilbe Dark Side of the Moon bloom?
Astilbe Dark Side of the Moon typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Astilbe Dark Side of the Moon need full sun?
Astilbe Dark Side of the Moon does best in part shade.
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Astilbe astilbe 'Bridal Veil'
Maggie Daley Astilbe
Astilbe x arendsii 'Maggie Daley'
Rheinland Astilbe
Astilbe x arendsii 'Rheinland'
Keep exploring
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Grow Astilbe Dark Side of the Moon with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
