Astilbe biternata
false goat's beard
A clump-forming herbaceous perennial to 1.8m high, with large, lobed and divided mid-green leaves with toothed margins. Produces tall, slender branching spikes of creamy white flowers in mid to late summer
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Cream White | Green | ||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Saxifragaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Astilbe are rhizomatous herbaceous perennials with attractive, usually ternately divided leaves and erect plume-like panicles of tiny white, pink or purple flowers in summer. The old, brown flower-heads remain attractive in autumn
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moist, humus rich or boggy soil in full sun, or in drier soils grow in partial shade. Will not thrive in soils that dry out in summer. Divide and replant every 3-4 years to maintain vigour and flower quality, discarding any old, woody rhizomes. May be damaged by late spring frosts
Propagation
Propagate by division in winter or early spring; replant immediately or pot up to plant out in spring when re-established
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Flowering stems may be cut back when flowers fade, or left standing for winter interest
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to leaf spot and powdery mildews
Get involved
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