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Key characteristics

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

Perennials

Astilbe japonica 'Red Sentinel'

Red Sentinel Astilbe

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.

Light

Partial shade to full shade

Water

Regular

Bloom time

Early to mid summer

Find this plant

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.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)