Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Astilbe japonica 'Red Sentinel'
Red Sentinel Astilbe
- Family
- Saxifragaceae
- Height
- 18 to 24 in
- Width
- 12 to 18 in
- Flower color
- Rich crimson red plumes that hold their color well as they mature
- Foliage color
- Deep green, finely divided, fern-like leaves with a glossy finish
- Bloom time
- Early to mid summer
- Light
- Partial shade to full shade
- Water
- Regular
- Maintenance
- Low, remove spent flower plumes after bloom, cut back foliage in late fall or early spring
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 4 to 8
- Wildlife
- Bees, butterflies
About this plant
Astilbe japonica 'Red Sentinel' produces upright plumes of rich crimson-red flowers that rise above mounds of glossy, dark green foliage in early summer. The feathery blossoms hold their color well as they open, while the finely divided leaves provide a polished backdrop through the growing season. Developed in Europe during the twentieth century as part of the japonica breeding group, this cultivar has become widely valued for dependable flowering and refined garden presence.
In the landscape, 'Red Sentinel' suits borders, woodland gardens, and mixed perennial beds where its bold flower plumes create seasonal highlights. It also performs well in mass plantings and as a fresh or dried cut flower, adding color and structure to designs.
Works well in
Borders · Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Rain Gardens
Companion plants
Hellebores · Japanese forest grass · Heucheras · Siberian bugloss · Sweet woodruff · Foamflowers
Design tip
Summer flowers carry the middle of the season, so place it where the bed needs color once spring bulbs fade. Cooler light suits it, so tuck it on the north side of a shrub or wall where the soil stays even.
