Growing Astilbe Old Ironsides Collection

Pronunciation: ah-still'-bee 

A collection of 12 Astilbe plants hardy in Zones 4-8s/10w; covers 27 sq ft; 12 plants: 3 each of a white, a red, and 2 pink varieties; heights. can range from 2' to 3'. Space 18" apart.

Suggested use: For partly shaded garden areas, edges of woodlands.

Culture: Provide a soil that is well drained and rather rich in organic matter; plants like filtered light and evenly damp--not wet--locations; 3-4 hrs sun; planting depth 1"; space 12-18"; pH 6.5-7.0.

Problems: If soil is too dry, plants will suffer; otherwise they have few problems with insects or disease.

Story: This easy-to-grow collection is named for the U.S.S. Constitution, which was launched in 1797 and has been a commissioned ship of the U.S. Navy ever since; she earned her nickname of "Old Ironsides" in the War of 1812, when cannonballs seemed just to bounce off the stout oak planking of her sides as if they were made of iron rather than wood.

Please note: These are not named varieties, but color will be indicated by color-coded tape on the bags.