A Dutch breeder developed the 'Younique' series of astilbe to bloom two weeks earlier than other varieties, bloom twice as heavily, resist diseases better, and to be more heat and drought tolerant. That said, 'Younique Ruby Red' is simply eye-catching with multiple flower stalks and beautiful fern-like foliage all summer long. Though it can withstand a missed watering or two, 'Younique Ruby Red' astilbe prefers regular watering and even tolerates wet areas near ponds or boggy spots in the garden. Those gardeners with full-sun exposures will be jealous because astilbes all do best in shade gardens with shade in the afternoon, or all-day dappled sun.