Astilbe ‘Bridal Veil’ Brautschleir is an elegant, mid sized cultivar known for its graceful, creamy white flower plumes that arch gently over lacy green foliage. Blooming in early to midsummer, it brings a soft, airy texture to shaded beds and woodland edges.
Height & Spread: 2 - 2.5 ft x 1.5 - 2 ft
Bloom Time: June to July
Light Requirements: Partial shade to full shade; tolerates some morning sun
Soil Preference: Moist, rich, well drained soil with slightly acidic to neutral pH
Watering Needs: High; thrives with consistently moist conditions
Deer Resistance: Moderate; may experience light browsing but not a primary food source
NATIVE STATUS
Not native to North America. It is a hybrid selection developed for ornamental use in gardens. While non native, it provides seasonal pollen for some generalist insects and is valued for its aesthetic and design versatility.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
Attracts small native bees and honeybees seeking pollen during its bloom period.
Butterflies
Occasionally visited by skippers and other small butterflies, especially in shady garden corridors.
Other Insects
Provides shelter at the base for small invertebrates; spent foliage can contribute to beneficial insect habitat when left in place through winter.
SPACING & LANDSCAPE USE
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow for airflow and clump expansion.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for shaded borders, woodland edges, underplanting of shrubs, and along streams or water features. Its graceful habit softens hard lines and complements lush, layered plantings in shade.
COMPANION PLANTS
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Actaea racemosa (Black Cohosh) - Tall, elegant spikes that bloom later, providing sequential interest.
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Aruncus dioicus (Goat’s Beard) - Adds bold, white plumes and height behind the more refined Astilbe.
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Heuchera richardsonii (Prairie Alumroot) - Provides mounding foliage and small flowers that fill the space at the base.
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Dryopteris marginalis (Marginal Wood Fern) - Offers upright, textural foliage that pairs well in moist shade.
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Mertensia virginica (Virginia Bluebells) - Spring ephemeral that complements Astilbe’s midsummer bloom and thrives in similar soil.