False Spirea Astilbe 'Darwin's Dream'
ABOUT
Astilbe 'Darwin's Dream' is an ornamental perennial known for its distinctive and attractive foliage and flowers. This plant typically displays a lush mound of fern-like leaves, which are deeply cut and rich green in color. The texture of the leaves is somewhat rugged, adding a tactile quality to the garden. As for the flowers, 'Darwin's Dream' is celebrated for its plume-like blossoms that stand out boldly above the foliage. The inflorescence consists of densely packed tiny flowers, which are often a vivid pink or a shade thereof. These fluffy flower spires can add a soft, yet striking element to the landscape. The blooms are favored by gardeners for their long-lasting nature and their ability to bring a burst of brightness to shaded garden areas. Moreover, these flowers are commonly visited by pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which adds to the dynamic life of the garden. Beyond their visual appeal, these Astilbe flowers emit a subtle sweet fragrance, which can be particularly enchanting on warm summer days. As the flowers mature, they can transition into a tan or brownish color, providing an extended period of interest as they stand in the garden even after the peak blooming period. Astilbe 'Darwin's Dream' is often used in garden compositions for contrast with other perennials due to its distinctive feathery flower spikes and deeply textured leaves. It is well-suited for planting in borders, along streams or ponds, or in woodland garden settings, where its visual characteristics can be fully appreciated.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae
Synonyms
False Goat's Beard, False Spirea
Common names
Astilbe 'Darwin's Dream'.
ToxicityTo humans
Astilbe, including the cultivar 'Darwin's Dream', is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting this plant, and it is not known to cause any significant toxic effects if eaten. However, as with any plant material, individual sensitivities could potentially cause mild stomach upset if ingested in large quantities. It is always advisable to refrain from eating plants that are not specifically grown or identified as edible.
To pets
Astilbe, known simply as Astilbe, is not toxic to pets such as cats and dogs. There is no evidence to suggest that ingesting this plant would result in poisoning for pets. While it is always best to prevent pets from eating non-food plants because they can sometimes cause gastrointestinal upset due to the fiber content or minor digestive reactions, Astilbe 'Darwin's Dream' does not pose any known significant risks for toxicity.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2 feet [60 cm]
Spread
1.5 feet [45 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Flowers: Astilbe 'Darwin's Dream' produces vibrant, feathery plumes that can add a splash of color to any shade garden.
- Shade Tolerance: This variety thrives in partial to full shade, making it an excellent choice for darker areas of the garden where other plants may struggle.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, the plant requires minimal care, making it suitable for busy gardeners or those new to gardening.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistance: The plant is typically resistant to browsing by deer and rabbits, which can help ensure its foliage and flowers remain intact.
- Extended Blooming Period: 'Darwin's Dream' has a longer blooming period compared to some other perennials, offering visual interest throughout the summer months.
- Moisture-Loving: It is well-suited to moist or wet soil conditions, making it a good choice for garden areas with poor drainage or near water features.
- Texture and Form: With its fern-like foliage and wispy flower plumes, Astilbe adds unique texture and form to garden compositions.
- Winter Interest: The dried flower heads can provide visual interest in the garden even during the winter when the landscape is often barren.
- Pollinator Friendly: While not its main attribute, the flowers can attract butterflies and other pollinators, supporting local biodiversity.
- Good Cut Flower: Astilbe flowers can be cut for bouquets, providing a delicate and lasting option for indoor arrangements.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Astilbe 'Darwin's Dream' can serve as a natural dye for fabrics, providing a range of soft shades depending on the mordant used.
- The dried plumes of Astilbe are used in floral arrangements and crafts, adding texture and interest to the composition.
- These plants can be used in educational settings, such as schools or botanical gardens, to teach about pollination and plant lifecycles.
- They can function as trail markers in gardens or parks when planted in sequential clusters along paths.
- Astilbe can be used in photography, providing a picturesque backdrop for portraits or macro photography.
- It's an excellent candidate for pressed flower projects due to its delicate and distinctive blossoms.
- Landscape designers sometimes use Astilbe as a living mulch, suppressing weeds while adding visual appeal.
- They are occasionally incorporated into fashion designs, such as haute couture headdresses or accessories, because of their unique texture and form.
- In culinary arts, though not commonly consumed, the flowers can be crystallized and used as edible decorations for cakes and desserts.
- Astilbe can be planted to signal soil moisture levels, as they will droop noticeably when in need of water, serving as an indicator for gardeners.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Astilbe is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Astilbe is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Patient Love: Astilbes bloom later in the spring and into the summer, symbolizing the patience needed in love and reminding us to wait for the right time.
- Dedication: Their ability to thrive in shade represents dedication and faithfulness to grow even under challenging conditions.
- Protection: The dense clusters of the Astilbe's flowers can represent a protective umbrella against life's negative aspects.
- Hope and Dreams: Named after Charles Darwin, a man who pursued his dreams of knowledge, 'Darwin's Dream' suggests a perseverance and hope for realizing one's dreams.
WaterThe False Spirea should be kept consistently moist and requires watering every few days, depending on weather conditions and soil moisture levels. During the growing season, it may need water about twice a week, receiving between 1 to 1.5 gallons per plant each week. It's essential to avoid letting the soil dry out completely, which can stress the plant and lead to wilted foliage. Ensure that the soil has good drainage to prevent water from stagnating around the roots, which can cause rot.
LightFalse Spirea thrives in partial shade but can also tolerate full sun in cooler climates. The best spot for this plant is one where it receives morning sunlight and afternoon shade, protecting it from the scorching heat of the day which could lead to leaf burn.
TemperatureFalse Spirea prefers temperatures between 60 to 75°F for optimal growth. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of about -20°F and a maximum temperature of approximately 80°F. Outside of this temperature range, the plant might experience stress, leading to poor growth and development.
PruningThe False Spirea should be pruned to remove spent flowers and encourage reblooming. Deadheading after the initial flowering can lead to a second, albeit smaller, flush of blooms later in the season. The best time to prune is immediately after the blooms have faded to keep the plant tidy and healthy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFalse Spirea thrives in moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). A mix of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand is ideal for proper drainage and fertility.
RepottingFalse Spirea typically does not require frequent repotting; it can be done every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its current pot to maintain vigor and health.
Humidity & MistingFalse Spirea prefers high humidity levels, ideally between 60% and 80%, which mimics their natural forested habitat conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep in moist soil, partial shade; high humidity is preferred.
Outdoor
Plant in moist, well-drained soil; partial to full shade.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleAstilbe 'Darwin's Dream', commonly known as False Spirea, begins its life as a dormant rhizome, which sprouts in early spring. The plant then develops fern-like foliage and erect stems, which serve as the base for its growth. By late spring to early summer, False Spirea produces feathery plumes of flowers in shades of pink, attracting pollinators to the garden. After blooming, the flowers may turn brown and seed heads form, which can be removed to encourage more foliage growth or left to self-seed in ideal conditions. As autumn approaches, the plant's foliage typically turns yellow or brown and withers as the plant enters dormancy. Throughout winter, the plant remains dormant underground, conserving energy for the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Astilbe 'Darwin's Dream,' commonly known as false spirea, is best propagated through division, which is a simple and effective way to create new plants that are true to the parent. The ideal time for dividing Astilbe plants is in the spring or early fall when they are not in active bloom. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant and gently separate the crown into smaller sections, ensuring that each division has a portion of the root system and several growth buds. Replant these divisions immediately, spacing them about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to give each new plant enough room to grow. Water the new divisions thoroughly after planting to help establish them. This method of propagation not only rejuvenates older clumps that may be declining in vigor but also quickly expands your garden with new Astilbe plants.
