Also known as Appalachian False Goat's-Beard
False goatsbeard (Astilbe biternata) is a clump-forming perennial native to eastern North America, featuring feathery white flower plumes in early summer.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade
50% intensity
Thrives in dappled shade to light shade. Protect from intense afternoon sun, which can scorch leaves.
Regular
75% intensity
Prefers consistently moist soil, but avoid waterlogging. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Moist, well-drained soil
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers cooler temperatures and can tolerate light frosts. Protect from extreme heat and drought.
Moderate
50% intensity
Enrich soil with compost annually. Use a balanced fertilizer in spring. Avoid over-fertilization.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot weather, but avoid waterlogged conditions. Water deeply at the base of the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Reduce watering slightly in fall as the plant enters dormancy. Adequate moisture is crucial for lush foliage and abundant blooms.
After the plant has finished flowering in late summer or fall, cut back the faded flower stalks to the ground. This tidies the plant and prevents seed formation.
In early spring, before new growth begins, remove any dead or damaged foliage from the previous season. This encourages vigorous new growth.
Astilbe biternata can be propagated by division of clumps in early spring or fall. Carefully dig up the plant and divide the root ball into sections, ensuring each section has healthy roots and shoots.
Replant divisions immediately in well-prepared soil, watering thoroughly.
Container-grown Astilbe biternata generally requires repotting every 2-3 years. Repot in early spring before new growth emerges. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one.
Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the plant is positioned at the same depth it was previously growing.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of False Goatsbeard (Astilbe biternata)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus | Astilbe |
| Species | Astilbe biternata |
Similar in genus Astilbe
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
