Size Matters:
Choosing the Right Astilbe Plant for Your Landscape

If you’re looking for a plant that can add a pop of color to your garden, look no further than the astilbe. With their feathery plumes of pink, red, white, and lavender, these perennials are a popular choice among gardeners. But with so many varieties available, how do you know which one to choose? In this article, we’ll take a look at the different sizes of astilbe plants and help you find the perfect one for your landscape.

What are Astilbe Plants?

Astilbe plants are herbaceous perennials that belong to the Saxifragaceae family. They are native to Asia and North America and are known for their feathery plumes of flowers that bloom in the summer. Astilbes prefer moist, well-drained soil and partial shade, making them an excellent choice for woodland gardens or shady areas of your landscape.

Small Astilbe Plants

If you’re looking for a smaller astilbe plant, there are a few options to choose from. The ‘Sprite’ variety grows to be about 8-12 inches tall and has light pink flowers. ‘Pumila’ is another small variety that reaches heights of 6-8 inches and has deep pink flowers.

Small astilbe plants are perfect for container gardens or for edging a walkway. They also work well in rock gardens or as groundcovers. Because they don’t grow very tall, they won’t overshadow other plants in your landscape.

Medium Astilbe Plants

Medium-sized astilbe plants are the most common variety found in nurseries and garden centers. These plants grow to be between 18-24 inches tall and have a range of flower colors, including pink, red, lavender, and white.

The ‘Amethyst’ variety is a popular choice among gardeners because of its deep purple flowers. ‘Fanal’ is another medium-sized astilbe that has bright red blooms. These plants work well in mixed borders or as a backdrop for smaller plants.

Tall Astilbe Plants

If you’re looking for an astilbe plant that will make a statement in your garden, consider a tall variety. These plants can grow up to 5 feet tall and have large plumes of flowers that create a dramatic effect.

The ‘Visions’ series is a popular choice among gardeners because it includes several tall varieties with different flower colors. ‘Visions in Pink’ has light pink flowers while ‘Visions in Red’ has deep red blooms.

Tall astilbe plants work well as focal points in your garden or as a backdrop for smaller plants. Because they grow so tall, they can also provide privacy when planted along a fence or property line.

FAQ

Q: When should I plant astilbe?

A: Astilbe should be planted in the spring after the last frost has passed.

Q: How often should I water my astilbe plant?

A: Astilbes prefer moist soil, so be sure to water them regularly during dry spells.

Q: Do astilbes attract pollinators?

A: Yes, astilbes are known to attract butterflies and bees.

Q: Should I deadhead my astilbe plant?

A: Yes, removing spent flowers will encourage new growth and prolong blooming.

Q: Can I divide my astilbe plant?

A: Yes, astilbes can be divided every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding.

Q: Are astilbes deer-resistant?

A: No, astilbes are not deer-resistant and may need to be protected if deer are present in your area.

In conclusion, choosing the right size astilbe plant for your landscape depends on your personal preferences and the size of your garden. Whether you’re looking for a small groundcover or a tall statement plant, there’s an astilbe variety to meet your needs. With their stunning plumes of flowers and preference for shade, astilbes are sure to add beauty to any garden.