Ostrich Plume Astilbe
Astilbe thunbergii 'Ostrich Plume'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Requires consistently moist soil
Humidity
Thrives in high humidity environments
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Japan
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Astilbe thunbergii 'Ostrich Plume' is a perennial herbaceous plant known for its delicate, feathery plumes of salmon-pink flowers and finely divided, fern-like foliage that creates a soft, airy display in shaded garden areas. This cultivar is distinguished by its large, gracefully arching flower panicles that resemble ostrich plumes, adding a striking weeping element and elegance to woodland and shade garden settings.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or divisions into moist soil in early spring
- Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist
- Mist cuttings with water to encourage root development
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring
- Divide plants every 3-4 years in early spring or fall
Pro Tip
Plant in partial shade with rich, moist soil for best results
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch annually to conserve moisture
- Divide every 3-4 years for vigorous growth
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer
Don't
- Avoid dry or overly sunny locations ❌
- Don't let soil dry out completely
- Avoid heavy, compacted soil without amendment
- Refrain from over-fertilizing which can cause floppy growth
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Ostrich Plume Astilbe questions
What zones can Ostrich Plume Astilbe grow in?
Ostrich Plume Astilbe is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Ostrich Plume Astilbe deer resistant?
Yes — Ostrich Plume Astilbe is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Ostrich Plume Astilbe bloom?
Ostrich Plume Astilbe typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Ostrich Plume Astilbe need full sun?
Ostrich Plume Astilbe does best in part shade.
More Astilbe to compare
'Visions in Pink' Chinese Astilbe
Astilbe astilbe 'Visions in Pink'
Visions Astilbe
Astilbe chinensis 'Visions'
Garden Astilbe, False Spirea
Astilbe astilboides 'Garden Mix'
Bridal Veil Astilbe
Astilbe astilbe 'Bridal Veil'
Maggie Daley Astilbe
Astilbe x arendsii 'Maggie Daley'
Rheinland Astilbe
Astilbe x arendsii 'Rheinland'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Ostrich Plume Astilbe with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
