Astilbe simplicifolia 'Key West'

Astilbe 'Key West' attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, making it a wonderful addition to pollinator-friendly gardens. The flowers provide a rich source of nectar for these beneficial insects. Additionally, the plant is deer and rabbit resistant, reducing the risk of damage from browsing wildlife.

Astilbe 'Key West' is a deciduous perennial, going dormant in winter and re-emerging in spring. During the growing season, it provides lush green foliage and colorful flower spikes, with blooms lasting through the summer months.

Woodland borders and shade gardens

Moist garden edges and stream banks

Mass planting in part-shade beds

Containers (in shaded areas with good water retention)

Softening edges along shaded paths

The foliage of 'Key West' is dark green, finely textured, and deeply lobed, giving it a fern-like appearance. The leaves form a compact, bushy mound that remains attractive throughout the growing season, providing a lush, green backdrop for the bright flower spikes.

• Flowering Season: This Astilbe variety blooms in mid to late summer, typically from June to August. Its soft pink flower plumes last for several weeks, providing a long period of colorful interest in the garden.
• Flower Description: The blooms of Astilbe 'Key West' are tall, feathery plumes composed of tiny, densely packed flowers in shades of light pink. These airy plumes rise above the dark foliage on sturdy stems, creating an elegant and dramatic display. Each flower spike can reach a height of 12-16 inches.

• When to Plant: Plant Astilbe 'Key West' in early spring or fall, when temperatures are cooler, allowing the plant to establish strong roots before the summer heat or winter cold.
• How to Plant: Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball, making sure the crown is at or just below the soil surface. Space plants 12-18 inches apart to ensure proper air circulation.

Pruning is minimal for 'Key West.' Deadhead the spent flower spikes after blooming to keep the plant looking tidy. In late fall, cut back the foliage to the ground once it dies back, preparing the plant for winter dormancy.

Astilbe 'Key West' requires consistent moisture to thrive, particularly during hot, dry periods. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and should be watered regularly to prevent the soil from drying out. Inadequate moisture can cause leaf scorch and reduced flowering.

This plant thrives in partial to full shade, making it ideal for woodland gardens or shaded borders. While it can tolerate morning sun, it requires protection from the hot afternoon sun to avoid wilting or leaf damage.

The flower plumes of Astilbe 'Key West' can be cut for fresh arrangements or left to dry naturally on the plant for added texture in dried arrangements. Harvest the flowers when fully open for use in fresh bouquets.

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or add compost around the base of the plant to promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms. A second, light fertilization in mid-summer can help support continued blooming.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
• Soil: Prefers rich, well-drained soil that remains consistently moist. It thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soils but can adapt to a range of soil conditions if provided adequate moisture.
• Disease Resistance: Astilbe 'Key West' is generally resistant to most pests and diseases but may suffer from root rot if planted in poorly drained soil. Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogged conditions.

Astilbe 'Key West' is pollinated by bees and other beneficial insects. The plant does not require special pollination care, and it will reliably produce flowers each year without needing cross-pollination.

 Perennials:

• Hosta – Broad-leaved foliage contrasts beautifully with the fine, lacey texture of Astilbe
  
• Heuchera (Coral Bells) – Colorful mounded foliage offers season-long interest beneath or beside Astilbe
  
• Tiarella (Foamflower) – Low-growing native with frothy flowers and patterned leaves
  
• Brunnera macrophylla – Heart-shaped silvery leaves and springtime blue blooms add softness and brightness
  
• Pulmonaria (Lungwort) – Spotted leaves and early-season blooms create contrast and seasonal layering
  
• Dicentra spectabilis (Bleeding Heart) – Arched stems and delicate blooms pair well with Astilbe’s texture
  
• Ferns – Such as Japanese Painted Fern or Lady Fern, which echo Astilbe’s fine foliage in a contrasting form
  
• Ligularia – Bold foliage and yellow flower spikes for added vertical interest and late-season color
  

 Shrubs:

• Hydrangea arborescens or macrophylla – Large, showy blooms that contrast with Astilbe’s finer texture
  
• Clethra alnifolia (Summersweet) – Fragrant late-summer flowers and glossy green leaves
  
• Rhododendron or Azalea – Spring-flowering evergreens that share Astilbe’s moisture and pH preferences
  

 Groundcovers & Grasses:

• Carex spp. (Sedge) – Adds grassy texture and works well in moist, shaded conditions
  
• Hakonechloa macra (Japanese Forest Grass) – Golden or variegated cascading foliage softens shaded borders