Chinese astilbe (Astilbe rubra)

Chinese astilbe

Also known as: False goat's beard

Chinese astilbe, or Astilbe rubra, is also called False Goat’s Beard. This is due to the plume shape that resembles the beard of a goat. Chinese astilbe does not like full sun, instead, this plant does well in areas that are partly shady. The blooms of the chinese astilbe are tiny but grow close together to form vibrant cones of color.

Scientific classification

Species

Chinese astilbe (Astilbe rubra)

Saxifrages, stonecrops and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Spring, Late summer, Early fall, Early winter

Harvest Time

Brown

Fruit Color

White, Pink, Purple, Red

Flower Color

Green, White

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Chinese astilbe

Distribution of Chinese astilbe

Distribution Map

The chinese astilbe is native to parts of Asia. This plant can be found in damp woods, shady forests, and valleys. In these areas, the chinese astilbe has been used as a ground cover and cut flower. It was also introduced to Austria.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

River

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Chinese astilbe is a commonly grown perennial adored for its fluffy pillars of blossoms. It grows well in the shade, so planting it near shrubs or trees will make this flower become a truly lovely specimen. Chinese astilbe typically is used as a groundcover or to attract pollinators to various types of gardens. For company, chinese astilbe enjoys ferns, Siberian irises, and impatiens.

Symbolism

Patience

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Care Guide for Chinese astilbe

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Chinese astilbe thrives in moist environments, requiring consistent moisture without oversaturation. Water weekly to maintain foliage. Best grown outdoors to benefit from natural rainfall, chinese astilbe is a herbaceous perennial that maximizes growth and flowering with carefully managed soil moisture mimicking its natural wet habitat.

Fertilize: In spring, use balanced fertilizers on chinese astilbe for growth, then switch to high phosphorus for blooming. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks, ensuring thorough watering to avoid root burn. Adjust feeding in autumn as growth slows, maintaining a gentle approach for vitality and blooms.

Pruning: Chinese astilbe thrives with early spring to late winter pruning, including trimming spent flower stalks and damaged leaves to boost new growth. Ground-level cuts in late winter promote blooming vigor. Pruning maintains aesthetics and prevents disease; always use clean, sharp tools for healthy results.

Propagation: Chinese astilbe flourishes in shaded gardens and is propagated mainly by division. Lift the clump, separate into sections with roots, and plant at the same depth. Ensure proper spacing, consistent moisture, and well-draining soil in dappled light for optimal growth and lush plumes.

Repotting: Repot chinese astilbe in early spring for optimal growth. Biennial repotting in a slightly larger container prevents excess wetness. After repotting, keep the soil moist and provide partial shade to support vibrant blooms and lush, feathery foliage.

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Images of Chinese astilbe

Distribution of Chinese astilbe

Culture

Care Guide for Chinese astilbe

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