Astilbe 'Glut' (× arendsii)
ABOUT
Astilbe 'Glut', commonly referred to as False Goat's Beard or False Spirea, is a perennial garden plant known for its visually striking and dense plumes of flowers. The 'Glut' variety showcases rich, deep red blooms that create a feathery appearance, drawing the eye with their vibrant coloration. These flower clusters form at the top of slender, upright stems, adding a vertical accent to the plantings. The foliage of the False Goat's Beard contributes to its allure, with lush, fern-like leaves that are intricately divided and often have a glossy surface. The leaves usually display a deep green shade, which beautifully contrasts with the red flowers, enhancing the overall dramatic impact of the plant. Astilbe 'Glut' thrives in part shade to full shade conditions, where its showy flowers can bring life and color to otherwise cool, shady garden spots. Its richly colored blooms and handsome foliage make it a popular choice for borders, woodland gardens, and alongside ponds or streams where it can be reflected in the water for an added dimension of beauty. This hardy plant also entices pollinators such as bees and butterflies, adding movement and interest to its surroundings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae
Synonyms
False Goat's Beard, False Spirea
Common names
Astilbe × arendsii 'Glut'.
ToxicityTo humans
Astilbe 'Glut', more commonly known as False Goat's Beard, is not considered toxic to humans. Therefore, there are no symptoms of poisoning expected from ingesting this plant as it is typically regarded as non-poisonous.
To pets
Similarly, for pets, the Astilbe 'Glut' or False Goat's Beard is not toxic. Pets that ingest this plant should not show symptoms of poisoning since it is generally considered safe for animals. However, it's always prudent for pet owners to keep an eye on their animals and consult with a veterinarian if any unexpected health concerns arise after ingestion of any plant material.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
1.5 feet (45 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Asia Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Astilbe 'Glut' adds vibrant color to shaded garden areas with its deep red flowers.
- It provides textured foliage that adds interest to a garden even when the plant is not in bloom.
- This perennial is low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established in the right conditions.
- Astilbe 'Glut' attracts pollinators like butterflies, contributing to the health of your garden ecosystem.
- It is resistant to deer and rabbits, making it a good choice for a garden in areas with wildlife.
- The plant is effective for controlling erosion when planted on slopes or in other problematic areas.
- Astilbe 'Glut' can be used for cut flower arrangements, providing fresh floral decor from your own garden.
- It's suitable for planting in borders, as ground cover, or in mass plantings for a dramatic effect.
- The plant can thrive in damp soil, making it a good selection for areas that are prone to wetness.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Pressed Flower Art: Astilbe 'Glut' leaves and flowers can be dried and pressed to create beautiful patterns for framing and display, capturing the intricate shapes and colors in an attractive composition.
- Natural Insect Deterrent: With its aromatic presence, Astilbe 'Glut' can help deter certain insects from the garden space without the use of chemical repellents.
- Photography Subject: Due to its vivid foliage and plume-like flowers, Astilbe 'Glut' is a popular subject for photographers looking to capture the details and vibrancy of garden plants.
- Wedding Decor: The delicate feathery plumes of Astilbe 'Glut' are often used in wedding bouquets and as part of the table centerpieces for a romantic, woodland-inspired theme.
- Fish Pond Planting: Planted around the edges of a pond, Astilbe 'Glut' adds aesthetic value while providing habitat for beneficial insects and possibly shading for the pond life.
- Educational Tool: Astilbe 'Glut' can be used in educational settings to demonstrate plant biology, pollinator attraction, and ecosystem interactions with its easy-to-observe growth habits.
- Rain Garden Component: Capable of absorbing some excess water, Astilbe 'Glut' can be used in rain gardens to help manage stormwater runoff naturally.
- Landscape Texturing: Designers use Astilbe 'Glut' to create a textured backdrop in shaded garden areas, giving depth and contrast against other plants.
- Dye Production: The flowers and leaves of Astilbe 'Glut', when properly processed, can be used to create natural dyes for textiles and crafts.
- Botanical Illustration: Artists and illustrators often choose Astilbe 'Glut' as a subject for botanical illustrations due to its distinctive flower clusters and attractive foliage.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant name Astilbe is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant name Astilbe is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Persistence: Astilbe is a hardy plant that can thrive in shade, symbolizing the ability to persevere through challenging conditions.
- Patience: It blooms later in the summer, representing patience and the reward of waiting.
- Delicate Beauty: With its feathery plumes, Astilbe signifies a delicate and subtle beauty.
- I'll Still Be Waiting: The play on words with its name ('I'll Still Be' sounding like 'Astilbe') implies a message of waiting for someone with dedication and love.
- Protection: Astilbe is often used in gardens to fill in spaces and protect soil, thus symbolizing protection and care.
WaterFalse Spirea requires consistently moist soil, so it should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions. During hot or dry spells, watering frequency should increase, ensuring at least an inch of water is provided each week. This could equate to around one to two gallons for an established plant, spread out over the week. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of leaf diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant early in the day to allow any splashes on foliage to dry out.
LightFalse Spirea thrives in partial shade to full shade, and bright, indirect light is optimal. It is best situated in a spot that receives morning sun and afternoon shade, or dappled light throughout the day if grown under a canopy of trees. Avoid placing it in prolonged direct hot afternoon sunlight as it may scorch the delicate foliage.
TemperatureFalse Spirea prefers temperate climates and does well in temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive temporary dips down to around 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but sustained cold below this can damage the plant. The ideal growing conditions are cool to moderate temperatures without extreme heat or frost.
PruningFalse Spirea should be pruned to remove spent flowers and to maintain shape. Pruning can be done after flowering, typically in late summer or early fall. This encourages denser growth and better blooms for the following year. Remove any dead or damaged stems at the base to promote healthy growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFalse Spirea, or Astilbe 'Glut', thrives in soil that is rich in organic matter, well-draining, and consistently moist. A mix of garden soil with compost and peat moss is ideal, providing acidity and nutrients. A pH range of 6.0 to 6.5 is optimal for healthy growth and flowering.
RepottingFalse Spirea typically does not require frequent repotting. It can be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil, divide the clumps, or if it outgrows its container.
Humidity & MistingFalse Spirea prefers high humidity levels. Ensuring a humid microclimate, especially during the warmer months, will help mimic its natural moist habitat, promoting lush growth and vibrant blooms.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep in bright, indirect light; maintain high humidity.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, keep soil moist.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Astilbe 'Glut', commonly known as False Spirea or False Goat's Beard, begins with seed germination in warm, moist soil in late spring or early summer after a period of stratification. Seedlings emerge with thin, delicate leaves and develop into juvenile plants with a slowly-expanding root system. As the plants mature, they form dense clumps of fern-like foliage and in early to mid-summer, they send up plume-like flower stalks bearing small, vibrant red flowers that attract pollinators. After the flowering period, seeds are produced, which can be dispersed by wind or fall to the surrounding soil. In autumn, the foliage often turns attractive shades before dying back as the plant enters dormancy to survive the winter. Each spring, the plant re-emerges from the same rootstock, continuing its perennial cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method for propagating Astilbe 'Glut', also known as False Goat's Beard, is division. To propagate Astilbe 'Glut' by division, the best time is in the early spring just as the plants are beginning to emerge. Carefully dig up the clump, ensuring you have a good amount of roots for each division. Using a sharp spade or knife, split the clump into smaller sections, making sure each has at least two or three growth buds. Replant the divisions immediately at the same depth they were growing at before, allowing approximately 18 inches to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) between plants to ensure adequate room for growth. Water in well after planting to help establish the new divisions. This process can rejuvenate older plants as well as increase your stock of Astilbe 'Glut'.
