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Definition of astilbe

astilbe

/əˈstɪlbi/
as · til · be
Plural:astilbes
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astilbe Lexical Profile

• noun

1

Any of various herbaceous perennial plants of the genus Astilbe in the family Saxifragaceae, native to mountain ravines and woodlands in Asia and North America, widely cultivated in shaded gardens for their fern-like foliage and feathery plumes of tiny white, pink, or red flowers.

Example

"The landscape architect recommended planting astilbes along the northern wall, as they thrive beautifully in damp, shady conditions."

• Rhymes for astilbe

• Nearby Words

assiniboine
astana
aster
astilbe
astilboides
astrantia
asuncion

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in 1825 by Scottish botanist Lord David Hamilton from the Greek prefix 'a-' (without) and 'stilbē' (brightness), referring to the relatively dull, lusterless appearance of the plant's leaves compared to its vibrant flowers.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Astilbe. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/astilbe
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