Buy meadow rue Thalictrum aquilegiifolium

Thalictrum aquilegiifolium

meadow rue

Fluffy mauve or white flower clusters appear in June and July, held on upright stems above grey-green, fern-like foliage. The dainty blooms of this early flowering meadow rue provide an excellent contrast with larger flowered plants.

Thalictrum aquilegiifolium looks handsome in a partailly shaded border, ideally where the stems can be supported by the surrounding planting.

How to care for Thalictrum aquilegiifolium:

Thalictrum thrives in moist, well-drained soil in partial shade but can tolerate full sun if kept well-watered. Plant it in a sheltered spot to protect the tall, delicate stems from strong winds and stake using plant supports made from natural materials (e.g. hazel or birch) before the flowers appear.

Mulch annually with compost or well-rotted organic matter to retain moisture and enrich the soil. In autumn, cut back the flower stems to ground level to to tidy up and encourage healthy growth the following year. Regular deadheading during the season can also help prolong flowering.

Divide congested plants in early spring as new growth appears, though divisions may take time to settle.

Flowering period:

Eventual height:

Eventual spread:

0.45m

Position:

Light shade

Rate of growth:

Average

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost

Hardiness:

Fully hardy

This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.