Astilbe Arendsii hybrid ‘Bunter Zauber’ seeds

Description

Picture thanks to Jelitto Seeds https://www.jelitto.com

This plant produces violet, red, pink, cream and white flowers in summer on a background of dark green leaves which are serrated and set off the flowers perfectly. The plant forms a clump, with slender flowering pannicles.
It is a plant which does not mind shade, but must have adequate light to flower. In northern regions of NZ they will be best in moist shady spots which still get adequate light ( the south side of your house should be good so long as there is light and the soil doesn’t dry out too much ). In Southern regions give them more sun but part shade.They need rich moist soil and lots of compost.It makes an excellent container plant.
This plant is a good cut flower and makes great dried bouquets.

Sowing advice

Sow the seeds thinly in early spring, onto the surface of moist seed raising mix , in pots or trays. Press the seeds lightly into the soil and do not cover with mix, as light is required for germination. Keep the mix moist but not waterlogged by watering from the bottom of the tray .Germinate at a constant 20 deg C. Germination will occur in 28 -35 days. Once germination occurs keep at cooler temperatures. Plant out after the last frost.