ASTILBE x are. Snowdrift

Overview and Features

Astilbe × arendsii 'Snowdrift' is a graceful and refined early- to mid-summer flowering perennial, admired for its pure white, feathery flower plumes and rich fern-like foliage. Part of the Arendsii group, ‘Snowdrift’ combines the best traits of several Astilbe species—vigorous growth, dependable flowering, and excellent garden performance.

With its upright habit and long-lasting white flowers, 'Snowdrift' adds brightness and softness to partially shaded gardens, particularly where moisture is consistently available. Its blooms are ideal for both fresh and dried arrangements, and the plant is well-suited for shade borders, woodland gardens, or moist beds.

• Height: 60–75 cm

• Spread: 45–60 cm

• Flowers: Feather-like white plumes

• Foliage: Deep green, finely cut, often bronze-tinged in spring

• Bloom Time: June to July

• Habit: Upright and clump-forming

• Type: Herbaceous perennial

• Hardiness: RHS H7 (hardy to -20°C and below)

• Attracts: Bees, butterflies, hoverflies

• Ideal for: Borders, shady beds, moisture-rich sites, containers

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Light and Soil Requirements

Astilbe 'Snowdrift' thrives in shady to semi-shaded locations with consistently moist, humus-rich soil. Unlike many flowering perennials, it tolerates full shade and rewards with a reliable flush of summer colour.

Light Needs

• Best in partial shade (filtered sunlight or morning sun)

• Tolerates full shade, especially in cooler or damp conditions

• Can grow in full sun if kept consistently moist

Soil Conditions

• Prefers rich, fertile, well-drained soil

• Must remain consistently moist, especially during summer

• Dislikes drought and dry sandy soils

• Thrives in loamy or clay soil, amended with compost or organic matter

• Slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal

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Planting and Care Tips

Planting

• Plant in spring or early autumn

• Space plants 45–60 cm apart to allow room for mature spread

• Mix in organic matter to enrich planting soil and retain moisture

• Water thoroughly after planting and apply mulch around the base

Watering

• Water regularly during dry periods

• Soil should never be allowed to dry out completely

• Essential to maintain moisture in summer, especially when in full sun

Feeding

• Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in early spring

• Top-dress annually with compost or well-rotted manure for nutrient boost

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Pruning, Division, and Seasonal Maintenance

Deadheading and Pruning

• Deadheading not essential, but can improve appearance

• Allow flowers to dry for winter interest or cut back in late autumn

• In early spring, remove dead foliage to make room for new growth

Division

• Divide every 3–4 years in spring or early autumn to maintain plant health and prevent overcrowding

• Replant divided clumps in enriched, moist soil

Winter Care

• Fully hardy—no special winter protection needed

• Cut back in late autumn or early spring when foliage dies back

• Mulch in autumn to protect roots and feed the soil

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Garden Uses and Companion Planting

Astilbe 'Snowdrift' brings elegance and texture to shade gardens and is particularly effective when used in mass plantings or as a contrast to bold foliage.

Design Uses

• Shade or woodland borders

• Streambanks or pond edges

• Moist perennial beds

• Underplanting for trees or large shrubs

• Cut flower gardens and container displays

Companion Plants

Pairs beautifully with:

• Hosta, Heuchera, Brunnera, and Ferns

• Ligularia, Pulmonaria, Tiarella, and Primula

• Iris sibirica, Carex, and Hakonechloa for contrast

• Bleeding heart (Dicentra) and Hellebores

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Key Benefits

• Elegant white plumes brighten dark or shaded garden areas

• Low maintenance with reliable performance

• Pollinator-friendly and deer-resistant

• Excellent for fresh or dried floral arrangements

• Moisture-loving and shade-tolerant, ideal for tricky spots

Standard Delivery per parcel*	€7.95
* parcels up to 30kg or within dimensions volume
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* multiple purchases qualify for combined delivery
For large items please ring us on 069-64084 to discuss delivery.

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

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All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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