Description
Astilbe 'Avalanche' is a white-flowered astilbe, also called false goat's beard. In midsummer it carries feathery plumes of white flowers above glossy, divided, dark green leaves with toothed edges on red-tinted stems.
'Avalanche' at a glance
| Botanical name |
Astilbe 'Avalanche' |
| Common name |
False goat's beard |
| Plant type |
Clump-forming perennial; dies back in winter |
| Height and spread |
About 60 cm tall in flower (RHS range 50 cm–1 m), 50–100 cm wide |
| Flowers |
White, in feathery plumes, June and July |
| Position |
Part shade or dappled shade; hot sun can scorch it |
| Soil |
Moist or wet clay or loam that never dries out in summer; any pH |
| Pond depth |
None – damp soil above the water line, not in water |
| Hardiness |
RHS H7 – very hardy (below -20°C) |
| Native to |
Not UK native (garden variety) |
Is Astilbe 'Avalanche' a pond plant?
It is a bog and waterside plant, not a water plant. The RHS suggests planting it beside water in soil that stays moist all summer, as it does not tolerate drought. Plant it in damp soil above the water line, not in the water.
How to plant and care for it
Plant in part or dappled shade, as hot sun can damage it. Keep the soil moist in summer. The dried flower heads can be left on for winter interest. Watch for vine weevil, leaf spot and powdery mildew.
Which size should I buy?
Bare-root plants (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive without a pot or compost and are the most economical way to plant a group. Potted plants (9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive growing in our peat-free compost and give a faster display. Packs of 3 come in 7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre bare-root sizes and cost less per plant. The 2x Pot & Compost option is two plants supplied with pots and compost.
