Astilbe  'Chocolate Shogun'
perennial

Chocolate Shogun Astilbe

Astilbe 'Chocolate Shogun'

$13.33
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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

High

Humidity

Prefers high humidity

Lifespan

Herbaceous perennial

Native To

Asia (parentage)

Toxicity

Non-toxic to pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Astilbe are clump-forming perennials prized for their plume-like flower spikes and attractive, fern-like foliage. They thrive in shady, moist locations, adding texture and color to woodland gardens. 'Chocolate Shogun' is distinguished by its dramatic, deep chocolate-maroon foliage that holds its dark color well through the season. The glossy leaves provide a stunning contrast to its light pink flower plumes.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesThe deep chocolate-maroon foliage provides a stunning, season-long color contrast in the shade garden, making it a standout specimen. The delicate pink plumes in summer add a soft, airy texture, and the dried seed heads offer winter interest.
Practical Uses'Chocolate Shogun' is an excellent choice for difficult, damp, and shady areas where many other perennials fail to thrive. Its clumping habit makes it a good filler for borders or along pathways without being aggressive.
Ecological BenefitsThe flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, providing a valuable nectar source during the summer months. The dense foliage can also offer shelter for small ground-dwelling wildlife.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

In Stock$13.33
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<1 Gal Pot
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<1 Gal Pot1+ Gal Pot
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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a location with partial to full shade and rich soil.
  2. Amend soil heavily with compost to improve moisture retention.
  3. Dig a hole as deep and twice as wide as the pot.
  4. Place the plant so the crown is level with the soil surface.
  5. Backfill the hole and water thoroughly to settle the soil.
  6. Apply a 2-inch layer of mulch to conserve precious moisture.

Pro Tip

Consistent moisture is key; never let the soil dry out completely for best foliage color.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Provide consistently moist, even wet, soil.
  • Amend soil with plenty of organic matter before planting.
  • Divide clumps every 3-4 years to rejuvenate them.
  • Mulch in spring to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Don't

  • Don't plant in hot, dry, or sunny locations.
  • Don't allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
  • Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause floppy growth.
  • Don't bury the crown of the plant when planting or mulching.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Dramatic foliage accent in shade gardensMoisture-loving border perennialStriking container specimen

Companion Plants

Hosta Heuchera Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum' Brunnera macrophylla Hakonechloa macra

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Chocolate Shogun Astilbe questions

What zones can Chocolate Shogun Astilbe grow in?

Chocolate Shogun Astilbe is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Chocolate Shogun Astilbe deer resistant?

Yes — Chocolate Shogun Astilbe is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Chocolate Shogun Astilbe bloom?

Chocolate Shogun Astilbe 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 Chocolate Shogun Astilbe need full sun?

Chocolate Shogun Astilbe does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Chocolate Shogun Astilbe 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.

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