Weeds And Thugs Part2

» PaulaMcG - Astilbe chinensis 'Pumila'

Marcella: Do you have any experience with the habits of Astilbe chinensis 'Pumila'? I am considering planting it in a bed which has perfect conditions for the little Astilbe, but do NOT want it to choke out the other treasures I have there already.

I truly agree with you about the ability of Japanese Anemone to get out-of-control! I've created quite a project for myself with that, and don't want to repeat the "mistake". (Although the Japanese Anemone almost redeems itself each year when it blooms along with the tall, hardy fucias.)

-- posted by PaulaMcG

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» ______MarcellaGM - Astilbe chenensis 'Pumila'

Paula,

I can't vow that this little Astilbe wouldn't over-run your small treasures. In general, this is what it is supposed to do, make a low, tight- matted ground cover. Grown in the right conditions, moist, even boggy soil, it could spread out quite a bit. Mine have never had generous amounts of water so they are well behaved and don't travel to far. In any case their roots are high up on the ground and are easily kept in check.

The plants that cause me to worry are under-ground runners. I have an Alba rose, 'Chloris,' with the most beautiful pink cupped flowers and smooth, thornless canes. I thought it was wonderful until I discovered it coming up two and three and even ten feet away from the mother plant. I had a heck of a time getting it out of a main perennial bed. It was too lovely to get rid of intirely so it now lives in a far corner of my garden where it can roam. Even so I keep an eye on it.

-- posted by ______MarcellaGM

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