Astilbe Black Pearls is a clump-forming perennial with glossy, deeply divided dark green foliage. Sturdy stems carry broad, strongly branched plumes that open lavender pink and mature through muted purple to deep purple from summer into early autumn.
The compact mound brings saturated color and fine texture to shaded borders, woodland plantings, pond margins, and containers. The upright plumes also make useful fresh cut flowers.
Grow it in fertile clay or loam that stays evenly moist but drains well. Partial shade is ideal, although full sun is possible where moisture remains constant. Annual compost and a spring feed support steady growth, and faded stalks can be cut back after flowering.