Thalictrum 'Black Stockings'
meadow rue
- Position: sun-partial shade
- Soil: fertile, moist soil
- Rate of growth: average
- Flowering period: June to July
- Hardiness: fully hardy
A new variety of popular meadow rue, this has lavender-purple flowers held high on striking, jet-black stems. Each small flower is made up of tiny strands, like downy thistles, giving the plant a hazy, fluffy effect. The foliage is pretty, too, scalloped and lacy looking. This willowy, tall perennial makes a striking feature towards the back of a partially shady border, or as a contrast to larger-leaved plants. It looks at home and happy as part of a cottage-garden scheme, but it associates well with grasses, too. - Garden care: May need supporting with brushwood or garden canes. Divide congested plants as new growth begins in spring, although divisions may be slow to re-establish. In autumn cut back flower stems to the ground.
- Eventual Height: 2m
- Eventual Spread: 0.75m