False Spirea Astilbe 'Weisse Gloria' (× arendsii)
ABOUT
Astilbe 'Weisse Gloria' is a striking perennial known for its lush foliage and feathery plumes. This variety showcases a mound of deep green, glossy leaves that are finely divided and fern-like in appearance, creating a dense, bushy clump. Its most defining features are the tall, upright flower stalks that bear pyramidal-shaped blooms. These flowers are a pure white color, giving the plant an elegant and graceful presence in the garden. Each plume consists of numerous tiny blossoms closely packed together, creating a fluffy and soft texture that visually contrasts with the dark foliage below. The inflorescences of Astilbe 'Weisse Gloria' emerge in abundance, making them a highlight in any shade garden. When it blooms, typically in the early to mid-summer, the plant becomes a beacon of brightness in shaded areas with its radiant white flowers. The blossoms are not only beautiful to look at but also attract butterflies and other pollinators, adding more life and movement to the garden setting. Though we are avoiding specifics about the plant's size, it's worth noting that the flower stalks rise elegantly above the foliage, making a strong visual statement. The overall effect of the plant is one of romantic softness, coupled with a feeling of robustness due to the fullness of the leaves and the strength of the flowering stems. Astilbe 'Weisse Gloria' is a truly delightful addition to any garden, offering both aesthetic beauty and the attraction of wildlife.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae
Synonyms
False Goat's Beard, False Spirea
Common names
Astilbe × arendsii 'Weisse Gloria'.
ToxicityTo humans
Astilbe 'Weisse Gloria,' also known simply as Astilbe, is not considered toxic to humans. There is no widespread information about poisoning or symptoms associated with ingesting this plant. Therefore, encountering or handling Astilbe typically does not pose a risk of toxicity for humans.
To pets
Astilbe 'Weisse Gloria,' commonly referred to as Astilbe, is not known to be toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. It is not listed among the plants that commonly cause poisoning in household pets, and there are no well-documented symptoms associated with pets ingesting this plant. Thus, it is generally considered safe for pets in terms of toxicity.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Flowers: Astilbe 'Weisse Gloria' produces white plumes of flowers that add visual interest and beauty to garden spaces.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant is well-suited for shaded areas where other flowering plants might struggle to thrive.
- Low Maintenance: Astilbe generally requires minimal care once established, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Long Blooming Period: It has a relatively long flowering season which extends the colorful display in the garden.
- Attracts Wildlife: The blooms can attract butterflies and other pollinators, enhancing the biodiversity of the garden.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistant: It is less palatable to deer and rabbits, reducing the risk of damage from these animals.
- Useful for Borders: Astilbe is suitable for borders and edging, providing structure and color contrast to perennial flower beds.
- Cut Flowers: The flowers can be used in fresh floral arrangements, bringing the beauty of the garden indoors.
- Erosion Control: The plant's root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion, particularly in shady slopes or banks.
- Variety of Uses: Astilbe is versatile and can be used in rock gardens, woodland gardens, and alongside ponds or streams.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Astilbe can be used in photo shoots to provide a soft, romantic backdrop for portraits or macro photography due to its delicate, feathery plumes.
- These plants can be utilized in the production of natural dyes, where the blossoms can be boiled down to extract pigments for coloring fabrics or paper.
- Dried Astilbe flowers are suitable for crafting bookmarks or greeting cards, as they can be pressed and preserved between sheets of paper for a decorative touch.
- Astilbe can be included in potpourri mixtures for their intricate visuals, although they do not contribute a strong fragrance.
- Their stiff stems and feathery flowers can be used in creating textured elements in floral collages and mixed media art projects.
- As an educational tool, Astilbe can be incorporated into plant biology lessons for children to study and observe the characteristics of perennial plants.
- Their striking appearance is a favorite among photographers and artists for still-life drawings or as a subject for watercolor and oil paintings.
- By planting Astilbe in outdoor labyrinth designs, they provide a seasonal change in aesthetics, as the foliage and flowers evolve during the year.
- Insects like bees and butterflies are attracted to the blooms, which allows for insect observation and photography without having to travel far from the garden.
- Astilbe can be used in the study of pollination and plant breeding, as their structure is favorable for attracting pollinators, thus demonstrating the relationships between plants and insects.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Astilbe is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Plant Symbolism- Patience and Dedication: Astilbe takes time to grow and bloom, symbolizing the virtue of patience and the rewards of dedication.
- Hope and Positivity: With its bright blooms, it represents hope for the future and maintaining a positive outlook.
- Delicate Beauty: The fine, feathery flowers of Astilbe convey an appreciation for delicate and subtle beauty.
WaterFalse Spirea thrives in consistently moist soil, so it's important to water regularly, especially during dry spells. Aim to water deeply once or twice a week, providing the equivalent of about 1 inch of water each time. Adjust the frequency to accommodate for rainfall, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. During hotter seasons, you may need to increase watering to maintain the appropriate moisture levels. In total, this might equate to several gallons per week depending on weather conditions and soil drainage.
LightFalse Spirea grows best in partial shade, particularly in a spot that is shielded from the harsh afternoon sun. Morning sunlight with afternoon shade or dappled sunlight throughout the day is ideal for promoting healthy growth while preventing the leaves from scorching. The right lighting condition is essential to bring out the vibrant colors of its flowers and foliage.
TemperatureFalse Spirea is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, but it prefers a cooler climate overall. This plant can typically survive minimum temperatures down to about 20°F and can handle maximum temperatures up to approximately 85°F. The ideal temperature range for the False Spirea is between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth and blooming.
PruningPrune False Spirea immediately after flowering to shape the plant and remove spent blooms, which can help promote future blooms. This is usually done yearly in late summer or early fall. Cutting back the plant by one third can encourage dense growth and improve the appearance for the following season. Dead and damaged stems should be removed as needed to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFalse Spirea thrives in organically rich, moist, well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. A mix of peat, compost, and perlite ensures good moisture retention while providing aeration.
RepottingFalse Spirea should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot to refresh the soil and allow room for growth.
Humidity & MistingFalse Spirea prefers high humidity levels but is adaptable. Aiming for a humidity level of 60% to 80% is ideal for robust growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in shade, maintain moist soil.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade; keep soil moist.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA.
Life cycleAstilbe 'Weisse Gloria' (× arendsii), commonly known as false spirea, begins its life as a rhizome or division planted in moist, fertile soil with partial shade. After planting, it undergoes a period of root establishment and sprouts shoots that develop into feathery, fern-like foliage. In early to mid-summer, the plant produces tall, plume-like flowers that are white and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. After flowering, the plant sets seed, which can be dispersed by wind or collected for propagation, although many gardeners propagate by division for maintaining cultivar traits. In late autumn, the foliage typically turns yellow and the plant enters dormancy, with the foliage dying back to the ground as winter sets in. In the spring, the cycle resumes as new growth emerges from the rhizome to repeat the process.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
For the Astilbe 'Weisse Gloria', which is commonly known as False Spirea, the most popular method of propagation is through division. This is best done in the spring or fall when the plant is not in active growth. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant, ensuring you preserve as much of the root system as possible. Gently separate the plant into smaller sections, each section should have several shoots and a healthy portion of the root system attached. Then replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing at before, spaced approximately 18 inches (45 centimeters) apart to allow room for growth. Water the new divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This method allows for the plant to recover quickly and ensures that the new plants will be true to the parent plant in form and color.
