Astilbe

Perennial Astilbe is a great shade plant with rich, dense foliage and feathery, summer blooms for your shade garden. Also known as False Spirea and False Goat's Beard, Astilbe is native to Asia and North America. Astilbe plumes bloom in June-July. Colors include include pink, red, white, purple and peach. Plants grow 18" to as much as 5 feet. There is a dwarf variety that grows about 6". Astilbe looks its best when planted in groups. They look great in a flower bed, as border edging, or in containers.

LIGHTING REQUIREMENTS: USDA hardiness zones: 3 through 9

CARE INSTRUCTIONS WATER: Water the plants to keep the soil moist, preferably at all times.

FERTILIZER: Astilbe are heavy feeders. In addition to a rich soil, add fertilizer high in nitrogen, on a regular basis.

FLOWERING: Astilbe plumes bloom in June-July. Colors include include pink, red, white, purple and peach.

SOIL: They need a soft soil, mixed with lots of humus or peat.

DISEASE: Astilbe seldom have major problems with insects and disease. If insect or disease problems occur, treat early with organic or chemical insect repellents and fungicide.