False Spirea Astilbe 'Federsee' (× arendsii)
ABOUT
Astilbe 'Federsee' is a perennial plant known for its elegant, feathery plumes of flowers that create a soft, fuzzy appearance. The flowers can be described as a deep, rich pink that tends to hold its color well as it blooms. These plumes are made up of tiny individual blossoms densely packed together, forming a shape somewhat akin to a narrow, elongated pyramid or a spire. The color of the flowers may appear as various shades of pink when observed in different lighting conditions or at various stages of blooming. The foliage of Astilbe 'Federsee' adds to its beauty, featuring compact mounds of fern-like leaves which are intricately divided and have a somewhat glossy texture. The leaves are a deep green color and provide a lush, dense backdrop for the bright flower spires, contributing to the plant's overall feathery and delicate appearance. When in bloom, Astilbe 'Federsee' has a graceful and eye-catching presence in the garden, with its vibrant colors and attractive foliage. Its flowers not only add vertical interest but also a sense of texture and softness, making this plant an appealing choice for adding depth and contrast to garden beds and borders. The combination of the striking flowers and lush foliage creates a look that is both romantic and robust, perfect for traditional garden settings and woodland-themed landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae
Synonyms
False Goat's Beard, False Spirea
Common names
Astilbe × arendsii 'Federsee'.
ToxicityTo humans
False Spirea is generally considered non-toxic to humans. Ingesting parts of this plant does not typically lead to poisoning or serious consequences. Therefore, it is considered safe to grow in gardens and landscapes without significant risk of toxicity to humans.
To pets
False Spirea is not known to be toxic to pets. This plant is generally recognized as safe for cats, dogs, and other animals commonly kept as pets. There should be no symptoms of poisoning associated with pets ingesting parts of this plant. Consequently, it does not pose a significant risk to their health if they happen to consume it.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Asia Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Astilbe 'Federsee' is valued for its attractive, fern-like foliage and feathery plumes of pink flowers that add aesthetic appeal to gardens.
- Shade Tolerance: Astilbe thrives in partial to full shade, making it an excellent choice for shaded garden areas where many other plants struggle.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care beyond regular watering, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Attracts Wildlife: The flowers of the plant attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for the garden ecosystem.
- Works in Mass Plantings: Astilbe is ideal for mass plantings, creating a visually impactful display when several plants are grouped together.
- Drought Resistance: While preferring moist conditions, Astilbe 'Federsee' can tolerate periods of drought once it is well-established.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistance: Astilbe is resistant to browsing by deer and rabbits, which helps to prevent damage to the plant in areas where these animals are prevalent.
- Versatility: Suitable for a variety of landscaping uses including borders, woodland gardens, and as a backdrop for lower-growing perennials.
- Summer Blooming: Its mid to late summer flowering period helps to provide color in the garden when many other plants have finished blooming.
- Good Cut Flower: Astilbe 'Federsee' makes an excellent cut flower for indoor arrangements with its long-lasting blooms.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: The striking blooms and foliage of Astilbe 'Federsee' make it an excellent subject for botanical photography and garden portfolios.
- Crafts and Drying: The flower plumes can be dried and used in floral arrangements or crafts for long-lasting decoration.
- Edging Plants: Astilbe 'Federsee' can be used to create elegant edges along garden paths due to their compact growth habit.
- Color Theming Gardens: With its unique deep pink-red flowers, Astilbe 'Federsee' is great for creating a color-themed garden area.
- Educational Tool: Astilbe 'Federsee' can be used in educational settings such as schools and botanical gardens to teach about plant biology and hybridization.
- Garden Contrast: The foliage of Astilbe 'Federsee' can be used to provide textural and color contrast in shade gardens.
- Container Gardening: This plant is suitable for container gardening, where garden space is limited or soil conditions are not ideal.
- Culinary Decoration: Although not for consumption, the flowers can be used as a non-toxic decorative element on cakes and dessert platters.
- Wedding Decor: Astilbe 'Federsee' can be integrated into wedding venue decorations, especially for outdoor or rustic-themed weddings.
- Symbolism: As a gift, Astilbe 'Federsee' can represent patience and dedication to beauty, making it a meaningful contribution to gardens.
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: The Astilbe plant blooms with patience, slowly and beautifully, symbolizing a love that is willing to wait.
- Devotion: Its lush feathery plumes are reminiscent of loyalty and devotion, representing dedication in relationships.
- Elegance and Grace: With its delicate and airy flowers, the Astilbe epitomizes elegance and grace, often associated with refined beauty.
- Hope for the Future: Astilbe's growth in shady areas symbolizes hope and belief in a future full of potential, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
- Prosperity: The full, rich appearance of the blossoms can signify prosperity and abundance in one's life.
WaterFalse Spirea 'Federsee' prefers consistently moist soil, so regular watering is crucial especially during dry spells. Water deeply once or twice a week, providing about one to one and a half gallons per plant for each watering session, depending on weather conditions and soil type. Always check the top inch of the soil before watering; if it feels dry to the touch, it's time to water again. Avoid overhead watering to minimize the risk of leaf diseases and instead water at the base of the plant. During exceptionally hot or windy periods, you may need to increase the frequency of watering to maintain soil moisture.
LightFalse Spirea 'Federsee' thrives best in partial shade but can also tolerate full sun in cooler climates. An ideal spot is one where the plant receives morning sunlight and is shaded during the intense heat of the afternoon. If situated in too much shade, however, the plant may produce fewer flowers and become leggy. Always ensure that the false spirea is protected from the harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch and stress on the plant.
TemperatureFalse Spirea 'Federsee' is hardy and can withstand temperatures down to about -20°F but grows best when daytime temperatures are between 60°F and 75°F. It can also survive in high temperatures but may require additional shade or water during heat waves. The ideal temperature range for healthy growth and blooming is mild to moderately warm conditions that do not exceed the upper 80s°F.
PruningFalse Spirea 'Federsee' should be pruned to remove spent flowers and to promote a tidy appearance and new growth. Prune right after the blooming period, typically in late summer or early fall, by cutting the flower stems back to the base. Occasional thinning of the plant can help maintain an open, healthy form and improve air circulation which reduces the risk of disease.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFalse Spirea thrives in moist, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix containing peat, loamy soil, and a generous amount of organic matter like compost will create an ideal environment. Regular mulching helps maintain soil moisture and keeps the roots cool.
RepottingFalse Spirea doesn't need frequent repotting; it can be repotted every 3-4 years. Ensure that the new container is only slightly larger than the previous one, and use a suitable soil mix to refresh the nutrients.
Humidity & MistingFalse Spirea prefers high humidity conditions. To thrive, it requires a humidity level that mimics its natural woodland habitat, so maintaining a relative humidity around 60-80% is ideal.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep in bright, indirect light; maintain moist soil.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade; water regularly; mulch.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life of an Astilbe 'Federsee', also known as False Spirea, begins when the small, rhizomatous roots are planted in moist, fertile soil during spring or fall. The roots sprout into fern-like foliage, which creates a bushy clump that serves as the base for future growth. By late spring to early summer, the plant develops tall, erect stems that bear feathery plumes of tiny flowers, ranging in color from soft pink to deep raspberry. After blooming, the flowers fade and dry, and if not deadheaded, will set seed which may result in volunteer seedlings the following season. During the fall, the foliage typically turns a yellowish-bronze before the plant enters dormancy for the winter months. In the subsequent spring, the cycle begins anew with new growth emerging from the rhizomes, continuing the perennial cycle of the False Spirea.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Astilbe 'Federsee', also known as False Spirea, is a perennial plant that can be propagated typically in early spring or late fall when the plant is not actively growing. The most popular method of propagation for Astilbe 'Federsee' is by division. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant making sure to keep a good amount of soil around the roots. Gently separate the clumps into smaller sections with at least two or three growth buds each. Replant these clumps at the same depth they were growing before, spacing them about 18 to 24 inches (approximately 45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow enough room for growth. Water the new divisions thoroughly to establish them. This method is effective as it helps to rejuvenate older plants that may have a bare center and also provides a way to increase the number of plants in the garden.
