Items 1 to 24 of 24 total
Items 1 to 24 of 24 total
Astilbe
Uses:
- Shaded Borders
- Mass Planting
- Container Gardens
Features:
- Low Maintenance
- Pest Resistant
- Attracts Butterflies
Sunlight:
- Full Shade to Partial Sun
- Under 4 Hours of Direct Sun
- North Or East Side of Homes
Growing Zones:
- 3-9
- What is My Zone?
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.
Why Buy Astilbe Online
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. The frothy plumes bloom in purple, red, pink, and white against a soft blue-green foliage color. These plants stay pest-free and attract birds and butterflies.
Astilbe 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 shade. It is a great plant to add color and texture to shady areas of your landscape.
Use in shaded areas
Adds texture to the garden
Available in purple, red, pink and white
Typically 6 inches to 2 feet tall
Growing zones 3 to 9
About Astilbe
Genus
Species
Family
Astilbe
Multiple species, including Astilbe chinensis, Astilbe japonica, and Astilbe arendsii (hybrids)
Saxifragaceae
Common Names:
False Spirea, Feather Flower, False Goat's Beard
Native To:
Asia and North America, particularly woodland and shaded areas.
Plant Type:
Perennials
Foliage Type:
Deciduous
USDA Plant Hardiness Zone:
4–9
Flower Color:
Pink, white, red, lavender, purple, and peach.
Flower Bloom Time:
Late spring to midsummer, with some varieties blooming into late summer.
Growth Habit:
Clump-forming, with feathery, plume-like flower spikes.
Attracts:
Bees and butterflies.
Tolerates:
Partial to full shade and moist soil conditions.
Resists:
Deer and rabbits.
How To Use Astilbe In The Garden
The biggest draw for Astilbes is their frothy plume-like flowers in shades of pink, red, white, and lavender. These dense flower clusters, composed of numerous tiny blossoms, rise above the plant's fern-like, deeply divided foliage. The foliage itself can be green, bronze, or burgundy, adding lushness and contrast to shaded garden areas. Astilbes are also appreciated for their ability to attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies in spring to late summer.
Astilbe grows well near shrubs and other perennial plants. It makes a wonderful groundcover under trees and can dress up plain areas such as near a compost pile or the side of a fence or building. It is commonly used in borders, woodland gardens, and along streams or ponds, thanks to its preference for moist, well-drained soils. Its attractive foliage and striking flower plumes also make it suitable for mixed perennial beds, providing continuous interest throughout the growing season.
Astilbe Care
Astilbes require partial shade, ideally with morning sun and afternoon shade, to prevent leaf scorch. They thrive in loamy, well-drained soil that is acidic to neutral. Maintain consistent soil moisture by watering deeply when the top of the soil feels dry and applying mulch to retain moisture. At planting time and each spring, use a balanced slow-release fertilizer to support growth.
Pruning astilbes is generally unnecessary, as deadheading does not encourage additional blooms. However, removing yellowed leaves in the fall can enhance appearance, and leaving faded flowerheads adds winter interest. For winter care, especially in colder regions, apply mulch to protect the root system. When growing astilbes in containers, select pots with good drainage and keep the soil well-watered but not soggy. Divide plants every three to four years to maintain vigor.
Learn More About Astilbe
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, ferns and coral bells. Iris, coleus and impatiens also make great complements to astilbe.
