Astilbe

Astilbe is a perennial plant with beautiful, showy flowers atop glossy, fern-like foliage perfect for shaded areas. Give it consistent moisture and this easy to grow plant looks great even when not in bloom.

Growing Astilbe

Astilbe is a genus of 18 species of rhizomatous flowering plants within the family Saxifragaceae, native to mountain ravines and woodlands in Asia and North America. Astilbes, known by common names, False Goat’s Beard and False Spirea, are excellent for creating a soft, colorful display underneath trees, in low light corners, or in shady borders. Spirea plants are great because they are pest free and attract birds and butterflies. Blooms in purple, red, pink, and white with a soft blue green foliage color.

The Best Way to Use Astilbe

Astilbe works well with shrubs and other perennial plants. It does great under trees and is perfect to dress up an area of your yard such as near a compost pile or on the side of a fence or building. False Goat’s Beard is winter hardy in growing zones 3-9. Depending on the species, this plant ranges in height from 6 inches to 2 feet tall with a 6-inch to 5-foot spread. Astilbe prefers consistently moist soil and partial sun and shady conditions. It is a great plant to add color and texture to an area of your landscape where other flowers will not thrive.

Astilbe Companion Plants

Astilbe prefers shaded areas and acidic soil along with consistent moisture. There are quite a few plants that can grow well next to astilbe with those same requirements that look fantastic together. Some of our favorites are azaleas, rhododendrons, hostas, and coral bells. Iris, coleus and impatiens also make great complements to astilbe.