Astilbe ‘Look at Me’ is a popular perennial known for its unique beauty and ability to brighten shady garden spaces. Its distinct visual appeal makes it suitable for various garden designs, from border plantings to container displays.
Distinguishing Features of ‘Look at Me’
Astilbe ‘Look at Me’ stands out with its vibrant, bubblegum pink plumes that create a striking focal point. These feathery flower plumes emerge on brilliant ruby red stems, providing a beautiful contrast against the foliage. Each plume’s tiny flowers open in succession, ensuring a long-lasting display from early to mid-summer.
The plant forms a compact, clump-forming mound of fern-like, dark green leaves that are densely incised, adding a fine texture to the garden. Some descriptions note the foliage can have a burgundy tint. This cultivar typically reaches a mature height of 15 to 25 inches and spreads about 12 to 20 inches wide, making it a suitable size for various garden applications.
Optimal Growing Conditions
‘Look at Me’ thrives in environments that mimic its natural woodland habitat, preferring partial to full shade. While it can tolerate some dappled sunlight, especially in cooler climates, intense afternoon sun in hot regions can cause leaf scorching or wilting. Positioning the plant where it receives morning sun and afternoon shade is often ideal.
The plant requires organically rich, consistently moist, and well-draining soil. It performs best in soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged, as standing water can be detrimental. Incorporating compost or other organic matter into the soil before planting provides the necessary nutrients and improves moisture retention.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Consistent moisture is essential for Astilbe ‘Look at Me’. The soil should not dry out, especially during dry spells or hot weather. Applying mulch around the plant’s base helps conserve soil moisture and regulate temperature.
Fertilizing in spring, and possibly again in early summer, with a balanced organic fertilizer can support robust growth and abundant blooms. Deadheading is not necessary for continuous blooming, but removing spent flower stalks improves appearance. The dried seedheads can also offer some visual interest later in the season.
Division of established clumps every three to four years is beneficial to maintain plant vigor and optimize bloom production. This process is typically performed in late winter or early spring, helping to prevent overcrowding. For winter preparation, the foliage can be left to provide insulation or cut back in late fall or early spring.
Addressing Common Concerns
Astilbe ‘Look at Me’ is a trouble-free perennial, resistant to common pests and diseases. It is also deer and rabbit resistant, making it a good choice for gardens with these animals. While largely disease-resistant, powdery mildew can occasionally occur in humid conditions.
Lack of blooms is a common concern, often due to improper growing conditions. Insufficient moisture is a frequent cause of poor performance or wilting, as Astilbe requires consistent hydration. Too much direct sunlight, especially in warmer climates, can stress the plant, leading to reduced flowering and scorched foliage. Providing adequate shade and consistent moisture resolves these issues, allowing ‘Look at Me’ to display its full flowering.