False Goat's Beard Astilbe 'Etna' (japonica hybrid)

Water

False Spirea 'Etna' should be watered thoroughly to ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. This plant prefers evenly moist soil, so it is essential to water it once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions and soil drainage. Approximately 1 inch of water per week is usually sufficient for established plants, but in very hot or dry conditions, you may need to water more frequently. Ensure that you provide deep watering to encourage strong root growth rather than shallow sprinklings that only wet the soil surface.

Light

False Spirea 'Etna' thrives in partial shade where it receives filtered sunlight or a few hours of morning sun. The ideal spot for this plant is in an area that is protected from harsh afternoon sunlight, which can scorch the delicate foliage. While False Spirea can tolerate some sun, too much direct light may cause stress and reduce the vibrancy of the blooms.

Temperature

False Spirea 'Etna' is hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures but performs best when the climate is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum winter temperatures down to about -20 degrees Fahrenheit. Extreme heat above 85 degrees Fahrenheit can cause stress to the plant, so it's essential to provide adequate shade and moisture during hot spells.

Pruning

False Spirea 'Etna' benefits from pruning to remove spent flowers and to promote bushier growth. Prune the plant right after it has finished flowering to encourage next year's blooms. Annually remove any dead or broken stems in early spring. Pruning is not only for aesthetic purposes but also helps maintain plant health and vigour.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

For Etna Astilbe, a soil mix rich in organic matter with good drainage is ideal. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging between 6.0 and 7.0. To create a suitable soil blend, combine garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or coarse sand to ensure moisture retention and aeration.

Repotting

Etna Astilbe, also known as False Goat's Beard, should be repotted every 2-3 years to replenish soil nutrients and to accommodate root growth. Divide the plants if they become too crowded, ideally in the spring or fall.

Humidity & Misting

Etna Astilbe prefers a high humidity environment, thriving best at humidity levels of 60% or higher. Maintaining generous ambient moisture will support its lush foliage and vibrant flowers without involving watering in this context.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.

• Outdoor

  Partial shade, consistently moist soil, protect from midday sun.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

Astilbe 'Etna', commonly known as False Goat's Beard, begins its life as a perennial rootstock that sprouts new shoots in early spring. As temperatures rise, these shoots develop into bushy foliage with compound leaves and the plant enters its vegetative stage. By mid to late spring, the plant progresses to the flowering stage, producing plume-like inflorescences with numerous small flowers that typically bloom in early summer. After pollination, often by bees or butterflies, the flowers produce dry, capsule-like fruits containing seeds in late summer to early fall. In autumn, the plant's foliage begins to wither, and the Astilbe enters a period of dormancy through the winter months. The following spring, the cycle is renewed with the emergence of new growth from the perennial root system.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• Astilbe 'Etna', commonly known as False Goat's Beard or False Spirea, is most commonly propagated by division, a process best performed in late fall after the plant has finished blooming or in early spring before new growth begins. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant, making sure to keep a good portion of the root system intact. Use a sharp spade or knife to split the clump into smaller divisions, ensuring each section has at least one shoot and a portion of the root system. Replant the divisions immediately, spacing them about 18 inches (roughly 45 centimeters) apart to allow ample room for growth. Water the new plants thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots and remove any air pockets. This method rejuvenates older plants, helps to control the size, and is an easy way to create new plants for other areas of the garden or to share with fellow gardeners.