False Goatsbeard

Astilbe japonica "Ellie" is a hardy, easy-to-grow herbaceous perennial that is prized for its long-blooming plumes of white feathery flowers, rising above glossy, deeply-divided dark green leaves. The foliage tends to remain dense to the ground, so does not require any low-growing plants to be placed in front of it. Plant out in a spot that receives dappled shade, in an area where the roots can be kept moist, in rich acidic soil. If planted in more alkaline conditions, it will unfortunately be subject to chlorosis (yellowing) of the leaves. The soft plumes of pure white flowers will be borne on strong upright stems during mid to late summer, and this can look most effective when several specimens are planted in drifts. Many species of butterfly will be attracted to the showy sprays of flowers. Mulch spread around the base of the plants will help to conserve moisture in the soil around them; do not allow their roots to completely dry out. Once established, this is a low maintenance plant that may be pruned during the early spring before the growing season begins. To propagate, divide the rootstock during the spring, ideally this should be done every 3 or 4 years to maintain vigour.

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