astilbe

American  

[uh-stil-bee] / əˈstɪl bi /

noun

1. any plant of the genus Astilbe, of the saxifrage family, having spirelike clusters of small white, pink, or reddish flowers.

---

astilbe British  

/ əˈstɪlbɪ /

noun

1. any perennial saxifragaceous plant of the genus Astilbe of E Asia and North America: cultivated for their ornamental spikes or panicles of pink or white flowers

---

Etymology

Origin of astilbe

1825; < New Latin, equivalent to a- a- ⁶ + Greek stilbḗ, feminine of stilbós glittering

Example Sentences

Thirsty plants, such as astilbe, gunnera, ligularia and canna lilies, thrive where water is readily available during the growing season.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 28, 2023

When the tank fills up, the overflow is sent to a bioswale with astilbe plants, violets and grasses.

From New York Times • Jul. 27, 2022

The signature plant here is an old Burford holly tree, which now shields a collection of ferns, hostas and astilbe and is encircled with a red brick path.

From Washington Post • Jul. 20, 2021

In “The Dark Master,” the contrast between the fragrant fields of astilbe and the pungent prison of your own perceptions makes both feel a bit more precious.

From New York Times • Jun. 22, 2021

A great choice to plant near your hostas and astilbe is the dainty-yet-hardy bleeding heart.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 15, 2014