Astilbe Premium Mix False Spirea

Astilbe Premium Mix is a color mix of shade-loving false spirea, containing lavender, pink, red, and white varieties. The elegant plants grow from 18 inches tall to a towering 60 inches tall and bloom continuously June through August, setting massive plumes dense with hundreds of tiny blossoms that open in succession. Borne on tall, stiff stalks above lacy, fern-like foliage, the flashy and fragrant plumes make fabulous floral cuttings for fresh and dried arrangements; but left in the garden, they sustain bees and butterflies all summer long. They will turn a rich caramel color as they dry on the plant and continue to add interest for months.

These Astilbe spp. varieties, commonly called false spirea or simply astilbe, are tough, rhizomatous perennials, hardy in Zones 4-8. They are relatively slow growing, but once established, they will grace the garden for many years to come. Astilbes are great border plants in the garden and are often grown along streams and around ponds. They're a must-have in shade gardens and woodland gardens, but they can also be grown in containers.

Astilbes prefer moderate climates and moist conditions and may suffer in hot summer temperatures, but otherwise, they are easy to grow and low maintenance plants. Astilbes grow best in part shade to dappled sun but also grow in full shade (hotter regions) and full sun (cool summer regions), but the foliage will burn in full sun in hot summer climates, where afternoon shade is essential. Keep astilbes well-watered, especially in hot temperatures and in times of drought. They prefer organically rich, evenly moist, freely draining soil with a slightly acidic 6.0 pH. Fertilize them when planting and each spring to support their huge flower plumes. Astilbes are generally deer and rabbit resistant.

In spring, plant Astilbe Premium Mix roots 1½ to 2 inches deep and space them 18 to 30 inches apart.