A well-loved, hardy perennial, Astilbe adds a focal point in the summer shady garden. You will have better flower production if they are placed in a area where they will receive a few hours of dappled sunlight. They prefer rich, organic soil with consistent moisture. If needed, amend your soil with compost before planting. Astilbe are great container plants as well as in the garden. The flowers will add a pop of color to a shady area and work well as cut flowers, too.