Astilbe japonica forms a compact clump of glossy, fern-like leaves topped with upright white flower plumes in spring and early summer.
- Height
- 45–77 cm / 1.5–2.5 ft
- Spread
- 45–77 cm / 1.5–2.5 ft
- Light
- Shade / Partial shade
- Soil moisture
- Moist, well-drained
- Flowering
- Spring, Summer
- Maintenance
- Low
- USDA zones
- 4a–9b
Planting
Choose partial to full shade and rich, moist soil that drains well. It works along shady paths, in woodland borders or in containers with reliable moisture.
Care
Keep the root zone moist through dry periods. Divide established clumps when you want more plants; the species can also be raised from seed.
Before planting: Sun exposure is better tolerated in climates with cool summers.
More plants to explore
Sources & photo credit
Plant reference: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. Content checked . Flowering seasons vary with local climate; USDA zones describe winter cold tolerance.
- Astilbe: David J. Stang · CC BY-SA 4.0. Resized, converted to WebP and cropped for display.
- Hybrid astilbe: Sten Porse · CC BY-SA 3.0. Resized, converted to WebP and cropped for display.
- 'Blue Mouse Ears' hosta: Cathy Dewitt · CC BY 4.0. Resized, converted to WebP and cropped for display.
- American alumroot: Behnke Nurseries, Inc. · CC BY 4.0. Resized, converted to WebP and cropped for display.