A strong colour statement in the garden, Astilbe chinensis 'Purple Candles' (Chinese Astilbe) is a tall, clump-forming perennial boasting rich violet-red flowers held in dense, graceful plumes. Blooming in midsummer, each plume consists of hundreds of densely packed tiny flowers opening in succession for a long-lasting floral display. The blossoms are held on sturdy stems and rise above an attractive mound of fern-like, dark green leaves. The densely incised foliage remains attractive all season long under satifactory growing conditions. This towering Astilbe is relatively trouble-free, requires little maintenance, is heavy shade tolerant, and attracts butterflies but is deer and rabbit resistant. The perfect perennial for a shady border with dappled light.