Astilbe Chinensis Mighty Chocolate Cherry, also known as Chinese astilbe or false spirea, is a popular deciduous perennial plant that belongs to the Saxifragaceae family. This plant is native to East Asia and can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. It is widely cultivated for its beautiful foliage and striking inflorescences that bloom in summer.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus | Astilbe |
Appearance
Astilbe Chinensis Mighty Chocolate Cherry has attractive foliage that emerges bronze-green in spring and turns dark chocolate by summer. The leaves are deeply divided and serrated, giving them a lacy appearance. In summer, the plant produces long, slender, upright stems that bear dense plumes of tiny, fragrant, cherry-red flowers. The flowers bloom for several weeks and add a splash of color to any garden. The plant prefers moist soils and partial to full shade.
Care Guide
Astilbe Chinensis Mighty Chocolate Cherry is relatively easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips to help you grow healthy plants:
- Water: Astilbe Chinensis Mighty Chocolate Cherry prefers moist soils and needs regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and blooming.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.
- Sunlight: Astilbe Chinensis Mighty Chocolate Cherry prefers partial to full shade and can’t tolerate direct sunlight. Plant it in a location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Astilbe Chinensis Mighty Chocolate Cherry is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, like any plant, it can be affected by some common issues such as:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes small, dark spots on the leaves. Remove infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering.
- Spider mites: These pests suck sap from the plant and cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. Spray the plant with insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
- Slugs and snails: These pests feed on the leaves and can cause significant damage. Use bait traps or handpick them to control their population.
Habitat
Astilbe Chinensis Mighty Chocolate Cherry is native to East Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea. It grows in moist woodlands, along streams, and in other shaded areas. The plant prefers cool and humid climates and can’t tolerate hot and dry weather. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Astilbe Chinensis Mighty Chocolate Cherry?
A: The plant prefers moist soils and needs regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water it deeply once a week or more often if the soil dries out quickly.
Q: Can I grow Astilbe Chinensis Mighty Chocolate Cherry in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow the plant in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the root system. Use a well-draining potting mix and water regularly.
Q: When should I prune Astilbe Chinensis Mighty Chocolate Cherry?
A: Prune the plant in late fall or early spring to remove dead or damaged plant parts. You can also cut back the stems after flowering to promote bushier growth.
Q: Does Astilbe Chinensis Mighty Chocolate Cherry attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s flowers attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators to the garden.
Related Plants
- Astilbe Chinensis
- Astilbe Arendsii
- Astilbe Japonica
- Astilbe Thunbergii
References
- “Astilbe chinensis ‘Mighty Chocolate Cherry’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=255892. Accessed 10 Dec. 2021.
- “Astilbe chinensis ‘Mighty Chocolate Cherry’.” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/2613/mighty-chocolate-cherry-astilbe/. Accessed 10 Dec. 2021.
- “Astilbe chinensis ‘Mighty Chocolate Cherry’.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/148123/Astilbe-chinensis-Mighty-Chocolate-Cherry/Details. Accessed 10 Dec. 2021.
