The word "Dwarf Astilbe" is spelled as /dwɔrf əˈstɪlbi/. The first syllable "dwarf" is pronounced as /dwɔrf/ which rhymes with the word "wharf". The second part "Astilbe" is pronounced as /əˈstɪlbi/, with emphasis on the second syllable. The letter "s" is pronounced as /s/ followed by the letter "t" pronounced as /t/. The last two letters "be" are pronounced as /bi/. This perennial plant is a favorite among gardeners for its feathery plumes of flowers that bloom in the summer season.
Dwarf Astilbe, scientifically known as Astilbe chinensis var. pumila, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Saxifragaceae family. It is a compact and diminutive variant of the Astilbe chinensis species. This small-statured herbaceous plant is commonly cultivated in gardens for its attractive, feathery flower clusters and ornamental foliage.
Dwarf Astilbe typically grows to a height of 8-12 inches (20-30 centimeters), making it a perfect choice for small gardens, containers, or as a ground cover. Its foliage consists of deep green, deeply divided leaves that form a dense clump. The compound leaves have a finely serrated margin and exhibit a fern-like texture. During spring and early summer, the plant sends up numerous erect stems adorned with plume-like flowers. The dense, feathery inflorescences consist of many tiny, fluffy flower clusters that appear in shades of pink, white, and lavender.
This plant thrives in moist, well-drained soils in partial shade to full shade environments. It prefers cool and humid conditions, making it suitable for woodland gardens or shady borders. Dwarf Astilbe is also a popular choice for adding color and texture to rock gardens, meadows, or alongside streams and ponds. It is relatively low maintenance, requiring occasional watering during dry periods and protection from strong winds. Pruning or deadheading spent flower stalks is advised to maintain a tidy appearance and promote future growth. Overall, the Dwarf Astilbe is treasured for its compact size, delicate flowers, and foliage that can provide a lovely accent to various landscaping settings.
The word dwarf is derived from the Old English word dweorg and ultimately from the Proto-Germanic word dwergaz. It refers to a mythical creature known for its small stature. Astilbe comes from the botanical genus Astilbe, which is a group of flowering plants in the family Saxifragaceae. The term Astilbe is believed to have been coined by German botanist Georg Arends in the early 20th century and its exact origins are unclear. Therefore, Dwarf Astilbe is a combination of the word dwarf and the plant genus Astilbe.