Astilbe chinensis 'Mighty Pip' is a bold, mid to late summer bloomer that features striking light pink flower plumes atop strong upright stems. Provides a dramatic vertical accent with its larger size and vigorous growth.
Height & Spread: 3 - 4 ft x 2 - 3 ft
Bloom Time: July to August
Light Requirements: Partial shade to full shade; tolerates some morning sun
Soil Preference: Moist, rich, well drained to clay soils
Watering Needs: High; thrives with consistently moist soil
Deer Resistance: Moderate; not a preferred deer food
NATIVE STATUS
Not native to North America. It originates from Asian species and is cultivated for ornamental purposes. While it doesn’t host native specialist insects, it contributes valuable structure and bloom time to shade and moisture focused plantings.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Attracts bumblebees, small native bees, and honeybees that collect pollen during its midsummer bloom.
Butterflies
- Visited occasionally by skippers and small butterflies looking for nectar in shaded environments.
Other Insects
- Dense foliage and upright stems offer some shelter and foraging space for ground dwelling insects and pollinators.
SPACING & LANDSCAPE USE
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 24 - 30 in apart to accommodate mature height and airflow.
Landscape Placement
- Best placed mid to back of shady borders, moist woodland gardens, or as a focal point in low lying beds where its height and color offer standout interest.
COMPANION PLANTS
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Arisaema triphyllum (Jack-in-the-Pulpit) - Adds early spring interest and pairs well in woodland settings.
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Caltha palustris (Marsh Marigold) - Moist soil lover with bright yellow spring blooms preceding Astilbe’s show.
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Iris versicolor (Blue Flag Iris) - Offers a striking early bloom and thrives in similar wet soils.
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Stylophorum diphyllum (Wood Poppy) - Spring flowering shade perennial that fills space before Astilbe blooms.
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Osmunda regalis (Royal Fern) - Dramatic, moisture loving fern with bold foliage that balances 'Mighty Pip's vertical flower spikes.