Astible are very popular, rugged, versatile, shade lovers that thrive in moist conditions. They produce colorful, elongated flower plumes above divided fern-like green foliage in the summer and add bursts of impressive color to the garden landscape. Best yet, they are low maintenance, attract butterflies but are deer and rabbit resistant. They are quite diverse with hundreds of varieties to choose from, each overachieving in providing splendid flower shows. Use them in groups or en mass to create a ground cover. Great for cutting when they are half opened. Erica is a tall variety with flower plumes on upright stems. Its foliage starts out reddish which turns darker green later in the season.