Product Field NotesCompanion Plants
Fanal Astilbe: Early Crimson Plumes for the Shade Garden
Save
Fanal astilbe is one of the most popular red astilbes and one of the earliest reds to bloom. In early June, upright spires of tiny, densely packed crimson flowers rise on reddish stems above finely divided leaves. Those leaves emerge glossy mahogany red in spring and mature to deep green, so the plant has color before it ever flowers.
It holds the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. It also needs moist, rich soil and shade, which is the opposite of what lavender wants, so it belongs in a shade garden elsewhere on the property.
Fanal at a glance
| Trait | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Botanical name | Astilbe × arendsii 'Fanal' |
| Flowers | Bright crimson red plumes, 6 to 8 inches long |
| Bloom | Starts early June, peaks mid-June |
| Foliage | Mahogany red in spring, deep green in summer |
| Size | About 20 inches tall, 18 to 20 inches wide |
| Hardiness | USDA zones 4 to 9 |
| Light | Part shade; more sun in the north if kept moist |
| Deer and rabbits | Avoid it |
Fanal on the shady side of a lavender garden
Astilbe and lavender will never share a bed. Lavender rots in the moist, rich soil astilbe loves, and astilbe crisps in lavender's hot, dry ground. But most properties with a sunny lavender bed also have a shady spot along a damp woodland edge, under trees or on the north side of the house. Fanal brings strong red color there, which is hard to find in shade.
Plant it with hostas and ferns, where the crimson plumes stand out against broad green leaves. A mass planting of Fanal along a shaded path is especially bold in June. Map your sun and shade zones in the Companion Plant Planner.
Planting a bare root astilbe
Fanal is offered as a bare root plant. Plant in spring with the crown just at or slightly below the soil surface, in soil enriched with compost. Water thoroughly and keep the soil moist while it establishes. See the product page for current availability.
Care through the year
- Moisture: the key to success. Leaf scorch from drought is the most common problem, so water during dry spells and mulch to hold moisture.
- Light: part shade. In hotter sites give afternoon shade.
- Air flow: crowded plantings in muggy weather can get powdery mildew or leaf spot.
- Rising crowns: astilbe crowns slowly lift above the soil over the years. Top-dress with compost or divide every few years.
- Winter: hardy in Michigan. Leave the plumes standing and cut back in spring.
Cut and dried plumes
Fanal is good for both fresh and dried arrangements. Cut plumes for the vase when about half the flowers are open. Left on the plant, they darken to rusty brown seed heads that hold through winter, adding texture to a snowy shade bed.
Frequently asked questions
Can Fanal grow in full sun?
In northern gardens it can take more sun if the soil stays consistently moist, but part shade is easier.
Why are my astilbe leaves turning brown and crispy?
Usually not enough water. Astilbe needs soil that never dries out, especially in summer heat.
Do pollinators visit it?
Some do, though astilbe is grown mainly for its color.
Share how it went in your field