Astilbe: A Feathery Foliage And Colorful Blooms

Astilbe, a perennial flowering plant, is a popular choice for shade gardens due to its delicate plumes of flowers and attractive foliage. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and is available in a variety of colors, including pink, red, purple, white, and even yellow.

Characteristics of Astilbe

Flowers: Astilbe produces feathery plumes of tiny flowers that can be single or double. The color of the flowers varies depending on the cultivar.

  • Foliage: The foliage of Astilbe is typically divided into leaflets and can be green, bronze, or reddish-brown. Some cultivars have variegated foliage.
  • Height: Astilbe plants can grow to be anywhere from 12 inches to 4 feet tall, depending on the variety.
  • Bloom Time: Astilbe blooms in late spring to early summer.
  • Planting Astilbe

    Soil: Astilbe prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.

  • Sunlight: Astilbe is a shade-loving plant. It can tolerate partial sun, but it will thrive in full shade.
  • Spacing: Plant Astilbe at a distance of 12 to 18 inches apart.
  • Watering: Astilbe requires regular watering, especially during dry periods.
  • All About Astilbes

    Care and Maintenance

    Fertilizing: Astilbe can benefit from a light application of fertilizer in the spring.

  • Deadheading: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming.
  • Division: Astilbe can be divided every 3 to 4 years to rejuvenate the plant.
  • Pests and Diseases: Astilbe is generally pest and disease resistant.
  • Popular Astilbe Cultivars

    There are many different Astilbe cultivars available, each with its own unique characteristics. Some popular cultivars include:

    Astilbe ‘Vision in Pink’: This cultivar produces large, pink plumes of flowers.

  • Astilbe ‘Bridal Veil’: This cultivar produces white, feathery plumes of flowers.
  • Astilbe ‘Red Sentinel’: This cultivar produces deep red plumes of flowers.
  • Astilbe ‘Rheinland’: This cultivar produces purple plumes of flowers.
  • How to Plant and Grow Astilbe

    Astilbe is a beautiful and versatile perennial that can add color and texture to any shade garden. With proper care and maintenance, Astilbe can thrive for many years to come.

    Astilbe Care Made Simple For Dynamic Summer Color Gardening Know How