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false goat's beard

Scientific Name: Astilbe

Family: Saxifragaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Astilbe: The False Goat's Beard and More

Astilbes, often called False Goat's Beard or False Spirea, are a popular choice for gardeners seeking vibrant color and feathery textures in their landscapes.

Common Names

  • False Goat's Beard
  • False Spirea
  • Feather Flower

Scientific Name

  • Astilbe (Genus)
  • Astilbe X arendsii
  • Astilbe biternata
  • Astilbe japonica

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Family: Saxifragaceae (Saxifrage family). This is also mentioned as the family to which the similar-looking plant *Aruncus* belongs.
  • Note: The text mentions that *Astilbe* is named for its resemblance to *Aruncus*.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Many species of *Astilbe* are native to East Asia.
  • *Astilbe biternata* is one of only two species native to North America, specifically the central Appalachians.
  • They thrive in moist environments, making them ideal for bog gardens or moist borders.
  • They can tolerate clay soil.

Morphology and Growth Habits

  • Astilbes are hardy herbaceous perennials.
  • They form attractive mounds of glossy, fern-like foliage.
  • They are topped with delicate, feather-plume-like flower heads in a variety of colors.
  • Heights can vary, with some varieties reaching 2-6 ft. (e.g., Appalachian False Goat's Beard) and others remaining more compact.
  • Some varieties have self-supporting flowers that retain their color for several weeks.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions "saw-toothed foliage" on some varieties.

Quirky Facts

  • The name "False Goat's Beard" comes from its resemblance to the plant *Aruncus*.
  • *Astilbe biternata* can be distinguished by its 10 stamens and 2 seed pods per flower.

Ecological Interactions

  • The text briefly mentions that a red-banded sand wasp may interact with Astilbe.

Cultivation

  • They prefer full sun or partial shade.
  • They require moist, humus-rich soil.
  • They have a vigorous growth rate.
  • They flower from May to June (depending on the variety).
  • They are fully hardy.

Further Information

  • Dave's Garden is mentioned as a resource for gardening tips and ideas.
  • The RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) provides information on *Astilbe biternata*.