Size	2-3 eye
Height	18-24"
Spacing	15-18"
Hardiness	Zones 4-9
Exposure	Shade. Will not flower as well in deep shade. Full sun will be tolerated in cool climates if the plants are kept well watered.
Foliage	Dense, dark green or bronze, fern-like
Flower	Fluffy plumes of pure-white
Bloomtime	Mid-late

Botanical: Astilbe

Common: Astilbe (False Spirea)

Family: Saxifragaceae

General Characteristics: Prefers a moist, slightly acidic, rich humus soil away from afternoon sun. Wilting and dying back can be avoided in hot, dry periods with ample irrigation. Periodically feed with a 5-10-5 fertilizer following label instructions. You can also mulch with well composted manure over Winter. Divide every 3-5 years. Attracts butterflies & hummingbirds and is a good cut flower. The flowers and foliage of the Astilbe are good for cutting and may be used in fresh floral arrangements. The flowers are good for drying. In order to keep Astilbe looking good for the next year, do not cut it back in the winter, (the old foliage helps protect the plant from winter damage), but prune in early spring. Astilbe can be used in perennial borders or shade gardens with Hostas and Ferns and alongside water areas.

Pests or Diseases: Slug resistant, deer resistant, resistant to walnut toxicity. Bothered by Japanese beetles and spider mites.

Planting Instructions: May be planted in any well-drained soil. Dig a hole large enough to encompass the roots without bending or circling. Set the plant in place so the crown (part of the plant where the root meets the stem) is about 1-2 inches below the soil surface. Cover with soil to the original soil surface and water thoroughly.