Astilbe and Chinese astilbe are often considered for the same spot in the garden (flowers, ground cover, container). The data below shows where they differ: size, hardiness, care, toxicity and price.
Astilbe × arendsii 90 cm × 60 cm after 10 years
A splash of colour for shady, damp corners: feathery plumes in white, pink, red or purple rise above ferny foliage in early summer. Plant it only…
Astilbe chinensis 60 cm × 50 cm after 10 years
A perennial with ferny, dark green leaves that sends up stiff, feathery pink or lilac plumes from midsummer, later than the garden hybrid astilbes. It…
Astilbe grows larger: 90 cm × 60 cm after ten years, against 60 cm × 50 cm for Chinese astilbe.
Chinese astilbe needs less water than Astilbe.
Chinese astilbe needs less care than Astilbe.
|
Feature
|
Astilbe
|
Chinese astilbe
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Perennial | Perennial |
| Size after 10 years | 90 cm × 60 cm | 60 cm × 50 cm |
| Ultimate size | 0.4–1.4 m × 30–60 cm | 0.2–1.2 m × 25–60 cm |
| Growth rate | no data | Medium |
| Light | Part shade, Shade | Part shade, Shade |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Clay | Average garden soil, Clay |
| Hardiness | down to -34 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) | down to -34 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Deciduous | Deciduous |
| Flowering | May–August, white, pink, red, purple | June–September, pink, purple |
| Water need | High | Medium |
| Drought tolerance | Low | Low |
| Maintenance | Medium | Low |
| Planting distance | 40 cm | 40 cm |
| For dogs | no data | Non-toxic (uncertain) |
| For cats | Non-toxic (uncertain) | Non-toxic (uncertain) |
| For children | Non-toxic (uncertain) | Non-toxic |
| Typical price | approx. €6 | approx. €5.90 |
Prices are rounded, indicative values. Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor. Data updated: October 8, 2026
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