False goat’s beard (Astilbe)

Astilbe × arendsii

Hybrid moisture-loving perennial with deeply divided ferny dark foliage and feathery flame-shaped flower plumes in white, pink, salmon, red, or magenta through summer. Mainstay of damp shade plantings.

Hardiness ratings

False goat’s beard (Astilbe) hardiness across the four zone systems
SystemRatingTemperature rangeHow to read it
USDA hardiness zone Zone 4–8 −34.4 °C to −6.7 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone
RHS hardiness rating H7 down to −20 °C Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance
Canadian plant hardiness zone Zone 4–8 −29 °C to −1 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone
Australian (ANBG) zone Zone 1–5 −15 °C to 10 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone

Growing notes

  • Plant in moist dappled shade — astilbes flower poorly in dry conditions, demand consistent soil moisture
  • Flowers June–August depending on cultivar — different cultivar groups extend the flowering season
  • Faded flower plumes provide good winter structure if left standing
  • Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigorous flowering

Categories

Related plants

Cross-check False goat’s beard (Astilbe) against your zones