Astilbe Roots - Ostrich Plume
Best low-maintenance perennial for adding vibrant color to shaded, moist gardens.
The Astilbe Ostrich Plume, a Thunbergii hybrid, offers a unique twist on the classic astilbe with its elegant, arching plumes of brilliant salmon-pink blossoms. These flowers cascade gracefully above dark green, lance-shaped foliage, creating a lush, visually stunning effect. This tall, late-blooming perennial thrives in shaded gardens, woodland borders, and near water features, making it an ideal focal point. It's easy to grow, attracts pollinators, and is resistant to deer and rabbits, making it a low-maintenance choice for adding vibrant color to shaded landscapes.
$32.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
726
/ 3183
#726 in Plant & Flower Bulbs
Price vs Category Average
+40%
Above average
Life Cycle
Perennial
/ Perennial
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking visual movement in static shade beds
- Homeowners with dark, damp garden corners needing color
- Busy gardeners wanting low-maintenance, deer-resistant perennials
Who should skip it
- Gardeners in dry climates or with poor irrigation
- Impatient gardeners expecting instant, full-bloom results
- Beginners struggling to manage precise light exposure
Performance breakdown
Shade Adaptability
Thrives in low-light conditions where most flowering perennials struggle to bloom.
Pest Resistance
Reliably deters deer and rabbits, saving your garden from unwanted grazing.
Pollinator Appeal
Arching plumes act as a magnet for local bees and butterflies.
Maintenance Ease
Low-effort perennial that rewards gardeners with minimal intervention required.
Moisture Tolerance
Perfect for damp woodland borders or areas near water features.
Visual Impact
Elegant salmon-pink cascades provide a sophisticated focal point for late summer.
Key Specs
Life Cycle
Perennial
Plant Height
24 to 36 inches
Plant Spacing
24 to 30 inches
Planting Depth
1 inch
Hardiness Zones
3 through 8
Light Requirement
Partial Shade
Water Needs
Average
Type
Root
Features
- Unique weeping plumes on arching stems
- Thrives in shade and moist conditions
- Attracts bees and butterflies
- Offers extended late summer bloom
- Resistant to deer and rabbits
- Suitable for cut flower arrangements
- Tolerant of wet areas
What customers say
Customers consistently highlight the exceptional quality of the Ostrich Plume Astilbe roots received. Reviewers frequently note the roots arrive healthy, robust, and ready for planting, leading to a high rate of successful establishment. The ease of growth and reliable performance in various garden conditions are major selling points, confirming this product delivers strong value through dependable results and vibrant plumes.
Know before you buy
This variety thrives in partial shade, meaning it prefers dappled light or a few hours of morning sun. Avoid planting it in full, scorching afternoon sun, which can scorch the foliage and dry out the soil too quickly.
Yes, Ostrich Plume is an excellent choice for moist areas. It is tolerant of wet soil, making it a great candidate for planting near water features or in low-lying spots where other perennials might struggle with root rot.
After the blooms fade, you can trim back the flower stalks to keep the plant looking tidy. Leave the dark green foliage intact until it dies back naturally in the fall, as this allows the plant to store energy for the next growing season.
Yes, this variety is considered resistant to both deer and rabbits. While no plant is entirely immune if food sources are scarce, the texture and taste of Astilbe foliage are generally unappealing to these garden pests.
Absolutely. The arching, salmon-pink plumes make a beautiful addition to floral arrangements. For the longest vase life, cut the stems when the flowers are about three-quarters open.
No, these are hardy perennials in zones 3 through 8. They are designed to survive the winter in the ground, provided they are planted at the correct depth and the soil is well-drained.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.