Astilbe rivularis var. myriantha - False Spirea

Astilbe myriantha (Syn. A. rivularis var. myriantha) is similar to the A. rivularis species, but it produces later, pale pink inflorescences instead of white ones, which are more flexible and branched. Its growth is also more significant, making it a magnificent plant for the moist locations it loves. Its tall floral stems dominate a bunch of finely cut green leaves, giving it a beautiful elegance. A perennial plant that will delight Himalayan flora enthusiasts!

Astilbe myriantha, from the Saxifragaceae family, originates from Southwest China and the Himalayas, specifically Nepal. It is an herbaceous perennial plant with a rhizomatous root system that is adapted to humus-rich and moist soils, and is quite water demanding. Within a few years it forms a beautiful clump of foliage that somewhat resembles a fern. This foliage, which emerges in spring, is composed of a group of leafy stems.  The leaves are compound, with deeply toothed large leaflets, of a medium green colour. In moderate climates, flowering begins in July-August. Slender floral stems, reaching a minimum height of 1.50 m (5ft) (up to 2 m (7ft) in optimal conditions), emerge from the foliage. Abundant, this flowering takes the form of long, branched and pyramidal spikes, with a feathery appearance, where numerous tiny flowers cluster together. Their salmon-pink colour becomes lighter at full bloom, then they turn brown as they fade. It is a deciduous plant, with aerial vegetation that dries up and dies in winter, and regrows in spring. 

This Astilbe myriantha thrives near a water source that serves as a mirror, giving it a unique charm. This very beautiful plant also enjoys gently shaded beds where the soil remains moist even in summer. It can be associated, for example, with lovely shade companions such as ferns and Giant Hostas. Its pink plumes contrast pleasantly with the large flowers of Hydrangeas. Planted in ribbons, Astilbes highlight shaded paths along with Liriope muscari and saxifrages. Their fern-like foliage lightens that of their opulent neighbors. Also, consider pairing them with rhubarbs. Their feathery blooming complements that of persicarias or bugbanes. Astilbes can tolerate exposure to the sun if it is filtered and the soil remains consistently moist.