Astilbe (also known as false goat’s beard or false spirea) is a perennial all-star for the shade garden. These hardy perennials sport large, fern-like foliage that is very attractive during the growing season, highlighted by feathery plumes of flowers that bloom through the spring and early summer. Astilbe is one of the few perennials that can tolerate moist soil conditions, so they’re perfect for pond-side planting or planting in areas of poor drainage. They are also one of the few colorful perennials that are deer resistant. This makes Astilbe an excellent perennial choice for any garden with low light conditions.

Below are just a few of the varieties of Astilbe carried by Meadows Farms. Please note that not all locations carry every variety, so please contact your local Meadows Farms for availability.

AMBER MOON

Soft, showy pink plumes, rising above bright golden-chartreuse leaves edged in red; perfect in a shady spot with dappled light; prefers moisture so water regularly for abundant flowers and nice foliage.

DELFT LACE

Striking apricot-pink colored plumes rising above glossy leaves; perfect in a shady spot with dappled light; prefers moisture so water regularly for abundant flowers and nice foliage.

DEUTSCHLAND

Deutschland Astilbe has masses of beautiful plumes of white flowers at the ends of the stems from early to mid summer, which are most effective when planted in groupings. The flowers are excellent for cutting. Its ferny compound leaves remain forest green in color throughout the season.

FANAL

Fanal Astilbe has masses of beautiful plumes of crimson flowers at the ends of the stems from late spring to early summer, which are most effective when planted in groupings. The flowers are excellent for cutting. Its ferny compound leaves remain emerald green in color throughout the season.

LITTLE VISIONS IN PINK

This dwarf variety produces showy light pink plumes, rising above deep green leaves; dense, upright form; perfect in a shady spot with dappled light; prefers moisture so water regularly for abundant flowers and nice foliage.

MONTGOMERY

Striking red plumes, rising above glossy leaves; perfect in a shady spot with dappled light; prefers moisture so water regularly for abundant flowers and nice foliage.

SNOWDRIFT

Snowdrift Astilbe has masses of beautiful plumes of white flowers at the ends of the stems from late spring to early summer, which are most effective when planted in groupings. The flowers are excellent for cutting. Its ferny compound leaves remain emerald green in color throughout the season.

VISIONS

Visions Astilbe has masses of beautiful plumes of cherry red flowers at the ends of the stems from early to mid summer, which are most effective when planted in groupings. The flowers are excellent for cutting. Its ferny compound leaves remain emerald green in color throughout the season.

VISIONS IN PINK

Soft, showy light pink plumes, rising above glossy leaves; dense, upright form; perfect in a shady spot with dappled light; prefers moisture so water regularly for abundant flowers and nice foliage.

YOUNIQUE SILVERY PINK

Incredible, silvery pink plumes, rising above glossy leaves; best in a shady spot with dappled light; prefers moisture so water regularly for abundant flowers and nice foliage; perfect for mixed containers; plume heads can be left for winter interest.