White Flower Farm
Astilbe chinensis var. taquetii 'Purple Candles'
Best vertical accent for gardeners with shaded, moist woodland spaces.
Astilbe chinensis var. taquetii 'Purple Candles' offers striking purple-red flower plumes that emerge in late summer above rugged, rich green, fern-like foliage. This variety is excellent for adding vertical interest to shaded garden areas. Astilbes thrive in part shade and evenly moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter, making them tough and pest-free companions for ferns in woodland borders or mass plantings. They are known for their handsome appearance and are useful for cutting when blooms are half open.
$16.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
29
/ 2989
#29 in Landscaping & Garden Plants
Price vs Category Average
-39%
Below average
Exposure
Part Shade
/ Part Shade
Who it's for
- Homeowners with damp, north-facing woodland garden plots
- Gardeners seeking vibrant, deep-toned accents for shady borders
- Landscapers needing sturdy vertical structure for mid-border planting
Who should skip it
- Low-maintenance enthusiasts who prefer plants that do not require deadheading
- Gardeners in dry climates or those unable to irrigate frequently
- Owners of sunny, exposed garden beds without afternoon shade
Performance breakdown
Shade Tolerance
Thrives in low-light conditions where most flowering perennials struggle to bloom.
Seasonal Impact
Late summer plumes provide essential color when other garden beds fade.
Maintenance Ease
Naturally resistant to common garden pests and diseases for effortless upkeep.
Structural Presence
Tall, vertical plumes create a dramatic architectural focal point in borders.
Cut Flower Utility
Sturdy stems hold up well in arrangements when harvested at peak.
Establishment Reliability
Bare-root shipping ensures vigorous growth once planted in moist, organic soil.
Key Specs
Exposure
Part Shade
Blooms In
August
Mature Height
36-48 inches
Spacing
15-18 inches
Ships as
BARE-ROOT
pH Requirement
6.5-7.0
Planting Depth
1 inch
Features
- Produces striking purple-red flower plumes in late summer
- Features rugged, rich green, fern-like foliage
- Blooms are useful for cutting arrangements
- Few problems with insects and disease
What customers say
Customers are highly satisfied with the quality of the Astilbe 'Purple Candles' received from White Flower Farm. The plants arrive healthy and establish quickly, showing excellent vigor. Gardeners consistently highlight the striking, deep purple color and the tall, upright candle like plumes, noting that the plant performs reliably even in deep shade. While the initial cost is premium, the exceptional quality and reliable garden performance make this variety a worthwhile investment for adding late season color.
Know before you buy
This variety performs best in part shade. While it needs some light to produce its vibrant plumes, intense afternoon sun can scorch the foliage and dry out the soil too quickly.
Astilbes prefer soil that is rich in organic matter and consistently moist but well-drained. Before planting, amend your soil with compost or leaf mold to improve moisture retention and ensure the pH is between 6.5 and 7.0.
You can expect 'Purple Candles' to reach a mature height of 36 to 48 inches. Its tall, vertical flower spikes make it an excellent choice for adding height to the back of a garden border.
Yes, they are excellent for cutting. For the longest vase life, harvest the plumes when the flowers are about half open.
Space your plants 15 to 18 inches apart. This allows enough room for the fern-like foliage to spread while ensuring adequate air circulation.
Astilbe chinensis var. taquetii is remarkably resilient and generally experiences very few issues with insects or disease. It is a low-maintenance choice for gardeners looking for reliable, pest-free performance.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$17