Alpine meadow-rue
Thalictrum alpinum · Ranunculaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant alpine meadow-rue: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to August
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm tall
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (zones 3-4)
- Origin
- Mountain regions of Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained, rich in organic matter
- Growth
- Slow to moderate
- Exposure
- Partial shade to light shade
Care
Exposure
Alpine meadowrue thrives in partial shade or light shade, ideal at the base of shrubs or in understory settings. It also tolerates sunnier exposures if the soil stays cool and moist. Avoid scorching full sun in warm regions.
Watering
Keep the soil moist but well-drained during the growing season. Water regularly during prolonged dry spells, especially in spring and summer. In winter, reduce watering once the plant goes dormant.
Soil
Choose soil rich in humus, well-drained and slightly acidic. Work in compost or organic matter at planting time. Overly compacted or chalky soil can slow its growth.
Fertilizing
A modest application of balanced fertilizer in spring is more than sufficient. Enrich the soil with compost annually rather than using concentrated fertilizers.
Pruning and cleanup
No strict pruning is necessary. Simply remove dried stems after winter or at the end of the season. Leave dried flowers if you'd like natural self-seeding.
Diseases and pests
Alpine meadowrue is generally very hardy and rarely troubled by diseases. Watch for stagnant moisture that could encourage root rot. Under normal conditions, treatment is usually not needed.
Did you know?
Alpine meadowrue takes its Greek name 'thalictrum' which may derive from 'thallos' (young shoot). Its tiny petal-less flowers, with plumed purplish stamens, are highly prized by alpine botanists and are a key element of mountain meadows, delighting pollinators at high altitudes.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.