False Spirea Astilbe 'Rheinland' (japonica hybrid)
ABOUT
Astilbe 'Rheinland' is a charming perennial known for its lush foliage and feathery plumes of flowers. The leaves of this plant are deeply divided, resembling ferns in their texture and shape, and they have a deep green color that forms an attractive mound beneath the flower spikes. The flowers of the Astilbe 'Rheinland' appear in dense, pyramid-shaped panicles and display a rich, pale pink hue that can add a soft, romantic touch to any garden setting. These blooms have a fluffy and delicate appearance, resembling a cloud of color perched atop the greenery below. The flowers are small and closely packed together on each panicle, giving the impression of a billowing mass of pink. As the season progresses, the color of the flowers may fade to a lighter shade, offering a different aspect of beauty and extending visual interest in the garden. This Astilbe variety is particularly noted for the vibrant and lasting color of its blooms, which stand out gracefully above the foliage on slim, sturdy stems. The overall appearance of the plant is one of elegance and fairy-tale charm, making it an attractive choice for borders, woodland gardens, or alongside water features where it can thrive in the moist, well-drained soil it prefers. The texture contrast between the fern-like leaves and the soft, plume-like flowers creates a visually engaging display that adds depth and character to the plant's surroundings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae
Synonyms
False Goat's Beard, False Spirea
Common names
Astilbe japonica 'Rheinland'.
ToxicityTo humans
Astilbe 'Rheinland', commonly known as false spirea, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting this plant. Therefore, accidental consumption is not expected to cause harm or significant symptoms.
To pets
False spirea is also generally considered non-toxic to pets. It is not known to cause serious illness or symptoms of poisoning if ingested by dogs or cats. While it is always best to prevent pets from eating plants, accidental ingestion of this particular species is not likely to result in serious consequences.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Adds Colorful Impact: Astilbe 'Rheinland' produces vibrant pink plumes that add a splash of color to shady garden areas.
- Shade Tolerant: It is well-suited for shaded parts of the garden where many other flowering plants struggle to thrive.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract butterflies and other beneficial pollinators, helping to maintain a healthy ecosystem.
- Low Maintenance: This plant is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal attention once established in the right conditions.
- Drought Resistance, Once Established: Although it prefers moist conditions, once established, it can tolerate periods of dryness.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistant: Astilbes are not a preferred food source for deer and rabbits, making them less likely to be damaged by wildlife.
- Great for Cut Flowers: The blooms of Astilbe 'Rheinland' make excellent cut flowers for indoor arrangements.
- Multiplication Over Time: This plant can slowly spread over time, filling in spaces and multiplying without becoming invasive.
- Seasonal Interest: It provides visual interest from spring through fall with its foliage and blooms.
- Combines Well With Other Plants: Astilbe 'Rheinland' pairs beautifully with other shade-loving perennials, enhancing overall garden design.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dried Flower Arrangements: The plumes of Astilbe 'Rheinland' can be dried and used in floral displays, maintaining their shape and color for long periods.
- Textile Dye: The flowers of Astilbe 'Rheinland' can be used to create a natural dye for textiles, imparting a soft pink hue to fabrics.
- Photography Prop: Astilbe 'Rheinland' adds a whimsical touch to garden photography with its feathery flower spikes and can be used for photo shoots.
- Artistic Inspiration: The unique form and texture of Astilbe 'Rheinland' flowers often inspire artists and can be used as a model for drawings and paintings.
- Culinary Garnish: Though not widely known for culinary uses, the flowers can sometimes be used as an edible garnish for desserts and drinks.
- Fairy Gardens: Due to its delicate appearance, Astilbe 'Rheinland' is popular in creating fairy gardens and miniature landscapes.
- Wedding Decor: Its soft pink blooms make Astilbe 'Rheinland' a romantic addition to wedding bouquets, centerpieces, and venue decorations.
- Teaching Tool: Astilbe 'Rheinland' is used in educational settings to teach botany and horticulture, specifically about hybrid plants and shade gardening.
- Scented Potpourri: The flowers, once dried, can contribute to potpourri mixes, adding a light fragrance to a room.
- Theme Gardens: Used in theme gardens like 'Moon Gardens' or 'Pastel Gardens,' it enhances the overall color scheme with its pastel flowers.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Astilbe is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Astilbe is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Patience: Astilbe takes time to bloom, often symbolizing patience or waiting for the right moment.
- I'll Still Be Waiting: The name Astilbe can be phonetically broken down to mean "I'll still be," which romantically can be interpreted as someone waiting faithfully for another.
- False Goat's Beard: It's a common name that describes the shape of its flowers, which can represent falseness or a false front, though this symbolism is less common.
- Water-loving: Astilbe requires a lot of water to thrive, often symbolizing the idea that love and affection need nurturing like plants need water.
WaterFalse Spirea requires consistently moist soil, so it should be watered regularly especially during dry spells. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. A general guideline is to water it with about 1 inch of water per week, but this can vary depending on climate conditions. During hot, dry weather, you may need to water twice a week, using enough water to penetrate the soil to a depth of 6 inches. Reduce watering in the fall as the plant prepares for dormancy.
LightFalse Spirea thrives best in partial shade, though it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. The ideal spot for this plant is one where it receives morning sunlight and is protected from the hot afternoon sun, which can scorch the foliage. A location with dappled shade throughout the day is optimal for the health and flowering of this plant.
TemperatureFalse Spirea is hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures, but it grows best in areas where the temperature is between 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This plant can survive minimum winter temperatures down to -20 degrees Fahrenheit and can handle summer highs up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Astilbe 'Rheinland' performs optimally in moderate climates without extreme heat or cold.
PruningPruning False Spirea is primarily done to remove spent flower stalks and encourage new growth. It is best to prune the plant after flowering, typically in late summer or early fall. Deadheading the faded blooms can sometimes prompt a second, though less abundant, bloom period. Cut back the foliage in early spring to tidy the plant and make way for new growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFalse Spirea thrives in a soil mix rich in organic matter with good drainage. A blend of peat moss, compost, and a bit of sand or perlite can create an ideal environment. The soil pH for False Spirea should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingAstilbes such as False Spirea generally do not need frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2-3 years or when they outgrow their current container.
Humidity & MistingFalse Spirea prefers a high humidity environment. Maintaining a humidity level around 60% is ideal for the plant's health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Use rich, moist soil and bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in shade, in moist, fertile soil.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleAstilbe 'Rheinland', commonly known as False Goat's Beard or False Spirea, starts its life as a rhizome, a type of underground stem that can give rise to roots and shoots. After a period of dormancy, typically in the spring, new growth emerges as the plant begins to develop foliage and erect flower stems. As temperatures warm, the plant produces feathery, plume-like flowers in shades of pink, which attract pollinators and can last for weeks. Once flowering is complete, the plant sets seed, which can be dispersed by wind or wildlife, potentially giving rise to new plants if conditions allow. In the fall, the foliage often turns a bronze or golden color before dying back as the plant enters a period of dormancy to overwinter. Each year, the rhizome can expand, allowing the plant to grow larger and produce more flowering stems in subsequent seasons.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Astilbe 'Rheinland', also known as False Goat's Beard, is typically propagated by division, which is the most popular method. For successful propagation, it's best to divide the plant in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. During this time, the plant is dormant, making it less stressful for the roots. To propagate by division, dig up the entire clump and use a sharp knife or spade to cut it into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has at least 2-3 growth buds. Replant these divisions promptly, spacing them about 18 inches (approximately 45.7 centimeters) apart to allow ample room for growth. It's important to keep the newly planted divisions well-watered until they are established. This method helps rejuvenate older plants and create new ones that will bloom reliably in the following seasons.
