Astilbe japonica, commonly known as Japanese astilbe, is a perennial flowering plant belonging to the Saxifragaceae family. It is native to Japan, Korea, and China. This plant typically grows up to 60 cm tall and has a clump-forming habit, with fern-like foliage that first appears bronze in the spring before turning green in the summer. The leaves are deeply lobed with serrated edges, giving them an appealing texture.
In mid-summer, Astilbe japonica produces flowers on tall spikes that rise above the foliage. The small flowers are densely packed together, forming plume-like inflorescences that come in shades of pink or white, depending on the cultivar. These flowers attract bees and butterflies, making your garden more lively.
Astilbe japonica thrives in moist soil conditions but can tolerate some drought once established. It grows best in partial shade or filtered sunlight, as full sun can scorch its delicate leaves and flowers.
There are several cultivars available for gardeners, such as 'Europa', 'Peach Blossom', and 'Montgomery', each offering unique flower colors or leaf shapes.
Overall, Astilbe japonica is an excellent choice for adding texture and color to shady areas of your garden while simultaneously attracting pollinators!
The False Buck's Beard, scientifically known as Astilbe japonica, is admired for its attractive foliage and plume-like flowers that bloom in the summer and later transform into dried seed heads. The feather-shaped inflorescences resemble a buck's beard, which is why it is commonly referred to as the False Buck's Beard.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Astilbe
- Family
- Saxifragaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 4-9
- Mature Height
- 61 cm to 76 cm
- Mature Spread
- 46 cm to 61 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Red, Brown, Bronze
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Pink, White
- Flower Size
- 2.54 cm
- Bloom Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer
- Native Area
- Japan
