Purpurkerze has feathery purplish red spikes on top of mounded mid green divided foliage. The panicles are comprised of tiny densely packed flowers which bloom June to July. This is a tall astilbe with stems that stand 4 ft high. Purpurkerze does well in shade to partial shade where it adds a welcome touch of color to a shady garden. It is generally pest free and tough, and is resistant to rabbits and deer. It is attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds. This is an excellent cut flower. After the blooms have died, the stalks with the dried seed heads are often left in place for winter interest