Who says you can't have perennial color in shade? Astilbes are one of the top shade perennials for a colorful display under trees or in shady spots in the border.

These neat perennial plants make lovely foliage, and in late spring, send up plume-like flowers in a host of rich glowing colors. Perennial astilbes come in various heights, so plant several levels for a multicolor perennial display, as shown in this photo. Along with hostas, astilbes create permanent beds around trees, in front of shaded foundation plants, or in any other moist, shaded spots. As a bonus, they also add elegant plumes of color in any cutflower arrangement. Enjoy!