Astilboides tabularis: The Giant-Leaf Perennial Your Mom Calls "Astilbicide"

Same plant as previous query — Astilboides tabularis (Shieldleaf). You're in upstate NY (Zone 4/5), selling perennials, and can't find info under the mangled name.

Key Facts

• Not an Astilbe. Different genus. Family: Saxifragaceae.
• Leaves: 2–3 ft diameter, deeply lobed, held horizontally — architectural.
• Flowers: Creamy white plumes, 3–4 ft, early summer.
• Spread: Slow rhizomes, non-invasive.
• Hardiness: Zone 3–7. Perfect for you.

Why Info Is Scarce

• Nursery trade name confusion.
• Swedish sites (bjorsby.se) list it as "Parasollblad."
• USDA databases lag on uncommon ornamentals.

Division Protocol (Your Best Sales Prop)

1. Autumn morning. Shovel + steak knife.
2. 3 new holes + bone meal (no N).
3. Dig, quarter, replant, water, mulch after frost.

Market It Right

Sell as "Giant Shieldleaf — Architectural Foliage for Deep Shade." Show leaf photo. Collect emails for spring divisions.

It's a conversation piece. You have a winner.