'Gladstone' has lovely white sprays on top of dark green foliage. It is one of the first astilbes to bloom in late spring. The fluffy upright panicles are comprised of tiny, densely packed flowers which stand 24 inches high. Gladstone does well in shade to partial shade, where it adds a welcome touch of color to a shady garden. It is generally pest free and tough. It is resistant to rabbits and deer, but attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds. This is an excellent cut flower. After the blooms have died, the stalks with the dried seed heads are often left in place for winter interest.