Astilbe, this delicate, feathery flower is popular and favourited by many for its look and style for weddings flowers. All of the twenty species (and ever expanding) of Astilbe belong to Saxifragaceae family. By origin, it is grown in mountain ravines and woodland areas in China and Japan. The German Botanist, George Arends introduced the flower in the early 20th century in the United States.

The name Astilbe comes from the Greek word ‘A’ (meaning without) and ‘stilbe’ (meaning brilliance). Not the meaning you would expert for this beautiful flower. Some other common names are false goat’s beard, feather and false spirea.

Symbolism

Astilbe flowers are a symbol of patience and dedication to a beloved one. If you give this flower away to a loved, you give away a promise that you will be waiting for this person. The flower is also a long bloomer, symbolising the dedication for a loved one, did you know? It certainly is an apt flower to use at a wedding and not just for its good looks.

Colours and Shapes

Each stem of Astilbe features a plume of the feather-shaped stem that holds clusters of small flowers together. It is available in beautiful soft colours, from pink, white, lavender, peach to deep red. The peak and naturally flowering period of the Astilbe is in the summer. Thanks to the popularity, more and more species are becoming available year-round.

Did you know? The flower can reach up to 85cm

Design with Astilbe

The delicate flowers of Astilbe add a touché of interest and texture to your flower arrangements. It’s a popular filler flower, which is easy to combine in different styles from boho, rustic to country garden. The flower is also often used in bouquets and table decor.

If you are looking for a pretty in pink bouquet, combine Astilbe with Ranunculus, Peonia, Astrantia and spray Roses. Alternatively, for a bold and dramatic gesture, combine Astilbe with Allium Sphaerocephal, Mimosia, Gomphrena and Waxflower.

Care Tips

Firstly, make sure you inspect the flowers of any damage and brown spots on arrival. Shake the flowers gently and loosen the stems apart from one another. Cut the stems and put the flowers into the water for a couple of hours, or preferably overnight in a dry, cool environment.

Types of Astilbe

Below, find some varieties of Astilbe that are available to purchase on the market.

Washington

Europa

Erika

Elisabeth Van Veen

Else Schluck

Amethyst

To conclude, you can find more varieties of Astilbe available on the website here. Along with more inspiration on how to incorporate this delicate, pretty flower into different styles of arrangements on our Pinterest Board.