Also known as Astilbe · Buck's-Beard · False Buck's-Beard
Astilbe japonica, False Buck's Beard, is a herbaceous perennial. It features feathery, plume-like flowers (white, pink, red) and fern-like foliage. Thrives in partial to
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers partial to full shade for optimal growth.
30% intensity
Avoid direct afternoon sun, which can scorch leaves.
Consistently moist soil, never allow to dry out.
80% intensity
Especially crucial during dry spells and flowering.
Rich, moist, well-drained, slightly acidic
50% intensity
Thrives in cool to moderate temperatures.
50% intensity
Tolerates a range but prefers consistent conditions.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Light feeding in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
40% intensity
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent lush foliage at expense of blooms.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Astilbe japonica is generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets according to reliable sources like the ASPCA.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Astilbe japonica requires consistently moist soil, especially during dry periods and throughout its flowering season.
Do not allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, as this can stress the plant and reduce bloom quality.
Water deeply and regularly, ensuring good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Mulching can help retain soil moisture.
Minimal pruning is necessary for Astilbe japonica. Deadhead spent flower plumes to improve the plant's appearance and potentially encourage a small rebloom, though some gardeners leave them for winter interest.
Cut back all foliage to the ground in late autumn or early spring before new growth starts. Remove any damaged, diseased, or yellowing leaves as needed throughout the season to maintain plant health.
Astilbe japonica is most commonly propagated by division in early spring or autumn.
Carefully dig up the plant clump and use a sharp spade or knife to divide it into smaller sections, ensuring each section has a healthy root system and at least one 'eye' or growth bud.
Replant the divisions immediately at the same depth as the original plant. Propagation from seed is also possible but takes longer and is less common.
Container-grown Astilbes may require repotting every 2-3 years, or when they become root-bound or show signs of reduced vigor. The best time to repot is in early spring before new growth fully emerges.
Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one and use a fresh, rich, well-draining potting mix. This is also an opportune time to divide the plant if it has grown too large, refreshing its growth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of False-Buck's-Beard (Astilbe japonica)
Where False-Buck's-Beard (Astilbe japonica) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus | Astilbe |
| Species | Astilbe japonica |
Similar in genus Astilbe
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
