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Northwest Blooms · Perennials

Astilbe thunbergii 'Chocolate Shogun'

Chocolate Shogun Astilbe

Astilbe thunbergii 'Chocolate Shogun'
Family
Saxifragaceae
Height
2-3 feet tall
Width
1-2 feet wide
Flower color
Soft pink
Foliage color
Deep chocolate-brown to purple
Bloom time
Midsummer
Light
Partial shade to full shade
Water
Medium to high
Maintenance
Low; remove spent flower stalks and tidy up in late fall or early spring
Growing zone
USDA Zones 4-8
Wildlife
Attracts bees and other pollinators

About this plant

Astilbe thunbergii 'Chocolate Shogun' is a unique variety with rich, chocolate-colored foliage that adds depth and contrast to shaded gardens. In mid to late summer, this plant produces elegant plumes of soft pinkish-white flowers that rise above the dark leaves, creating a visually captivating display. The airy flower clusters provide a graceful texture that contrasts beautifully with the broad, glossy foliage, giving a refined look to borders and woodland plantings.

Originally developed for its exceptional foliage, 'Chocolate Shogun' brings a bold color statement to gardens that enjoy less sunlight. Its foliage retains a deep, chocolate hue throughout the growing season, making it a versatile option for mixed plantings where colorful leaves can offset more vibrant blooms or other foliage. This cultivar is especially effective in shaded landscapes, containers, or alongside other shade-loving plants, offering a luxurious, low-maintenance option for gardeners seeking year-round interest.

Works well in

Borders · Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Rain Gardens

Companion plants

Ferns · Lungworts · Wild ginger · Hellebores · Japanese forest grass · Heucheras

Design tip

Summer flowers carry the middle of the season, so place it where the bed needs color once spring bulbs fade. Keep it out of hot afternoon sun and layer it with woodland companions for a full, settled look.

Where to see it

This plant can be seen in the perennial border at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.