Astilbe — 19 species

Astilbe is a genus of feathery-plumed shade perennials in the Saxifragaceae family, encompassing species such as the bold Chinese astilbe (A. chinensis), the elegantly arching Japanese astilbe (A. japonica), and popular Arendsii hybrids like 'Fanal' with its deep crimson plumes. They thrive in partial to full shade with two to four hours of indirect sun and demand consistently moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil; they are not drought tolerant and wilt quickly if the ground dries out. Toxicity varies across the genus — check each Astilbe species before buying if you share your home with cats or dogs.