Perennial
Astilbe
Astilbe japonica
Monrovia® varieties
Traits
Varieties We Carry
Vision in RedAstilbe chinensisMonroviaDeutschlandAstilbe japonicaMonroviaAnd AlwaysAstilbe japonicaMonrovia
Sizes & Pricing
#1MonroviaFrom$15.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked May 21.
LightPartial Shade to Full Shade
WaterModerate to High
Mature size18-30 inches × 18-30 inches
About Astilbe
Astilbe japonica is a shade-loving perennial with finely divided foliage and feathery flower plumes in white, pink, or red in late spring. In NE Florida's zone 9b, it is best used as a cool-season annual or container plant; the intense summer heat and humidity typically prevent reliable long-term survival. Provide deep shade, consistently moist rich soil, and expect replacement planting. Starting at $15.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Late spring to early summer
- Flower Color
- White
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Soil
- Loam, Acidic, Rich, Moist, Well-drained
Care essentials
Light
Astilbe requires partial to full shade in NE Florida; even brief afternoon sun in summer causes foliage scorch and rapid decline. This is a cool-climate plant at the very edge of its heat tolerance in zone 9b — deep shade and afternoon protection are essential for any chance of persistence.
Water
Keep soil consistently and evenly moist at all times — astilbe does not tolerate drought. In NE Florida's heat, daily watering may be needed during summer; heavy mulch is critical. Even with optimal care, plants commonly fail to persist through multiple seasons in zone 9b.
Soil & Fertilizer
Astilbe demands rich, consistently moist, acidic soil (pH 6.0–6.5) amended with organic matter. In NE Florida's sandy soils, heavy compost incorporation and regular mulching are required. Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Best treated as a cool-season annual in zone 9b due to summer heat stress.
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Common questions
Is Astilbe a good plant for St. Augustine?
Astilbe is a perennial for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 18-30 inches × 18-30 inches.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed June 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.