A dwarf, late-flowering variety, Astilbe 'Veronica Klose' False Spirea is a hardy perennial that blooms late summer in torch-like, bright rose-purple plumes. Borne on slender, erect to gracefully arching stems, the airy panicles are dense with tiny, star-like flowers and rise above a low, graceful, fern-like mound of lacy green leaves. The long-lasting flowers make excellent cuts for fresh and dried arrangements, and the end-of-season seed heads add ornamental interest to the late-season garden.
Typical of Astilbe chinensis, commonly called Chinese astilbe, false spirea, or goat's beard, 'Veronica Klose' is a dense, leafy, clump-forming plant. It has an upright, compact habit and slowly spreads by rhizomes. The plant works well as a specimen or container plant, but it works equally well grouped or massed in mixed beds and borders, especially in shade gardens and along water features.
Easy to grow and low maintenance, astilbe grows best in dappled sun to full shade locations with organically rich, humusy, moist, well-drained, soil. The plant should not be allowed to dry out; however, Chinese astilbe varieties are noted for having better sun and drought tolerance than most x arendsii hybrids. 'Veronica Klose' False Spirea tolerates full sun in cool climates if well-watered, and best flowering occurs with some sun. Deer resistant and virtually pest free.
