Astilbe japonica 39elisabeth van veen39 produces spikes of fluffy bright pink flowers on upright stems above clumps of finely divided leaves also known as false goatsbeard this eye45catching herbaceous perennial blooms in early summer and makes an excellent addition to cottage garden borders and patio containers preferring lots of moisture and happy in sun or partial shade astilbe is great for difficult damp spots in the garden height and spread 50cm 40203441