Meadow rue
Thalictrum aquilegiifolium · Ranunculaceae
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⚠️ Ranunculacées contiennent protoanémonine irritante. Enfants risquent irritation muqueuse et troubles digestifs par ingestion.
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant meadow rue: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Thalictrum aquilegiifolium
- Family
- Ranunculaceae
- Plant type
- Herbaceous perennial
- Mature height
- 80 to 120 cm
- Foliage
- Deciduous, finely divided
- Flowering
- May to July, feathery lilac-pink flowers
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (zone 3 to 8)
- Origin
- Central and eastern Europe
✓ Taxonomy verifiedSource: AI estimate · hardiness: reliability high.
Expert tips
The key tip
Thalictrum aquilegiifolium thrives in cool, rich soil. Part-shade exposure is ideal for limiting heat and prolonging flowering from May/June/July.
The common mistake
Neglecting watering during establishment (year 1): it can take 3 years to recover if stressed by lack of water at planting.
The pro's trick
Divide every 4 years in autumn to rejuvenate the central clumps which become hollow—replant immediately in fresh soil.
Care
Light exposure
Meadow rue appreciates part shade or partial sun exposure, especially in warm regions. It also tolerates dappled light. A location protected from strong winds better preserves its fine feathery inflorescences.
Watering
Keep the soil regularly moist, especially during growth and flowering periods. In summer, water more frequently if rainfall is scarce. However, avoid waterlogging, which promotes root rot.
Soil
Prefer rich, well-draining soil that is slightly moist and enriched with organic matter. Neutral to slightly acidic soil suits it perfectly. Adding compost in spring promotes vigor.
Fertilizing
A balanced fertilizer application in early spring is usually sufficient. You can repeat in June if flowering seems sparse. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which encourages foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove spent flowers to extend blooming. In late autumn, cut the plant back to ground level after the first frost. Clean up debris to prevent disease. Discreet staking may be necessary in rich soil or very shady locations.
Diseases and pests
This plant is generally very healthy. In cases of prolonged excess moisture, powdery mildew may appear; aerate the bed then. Slugs can damage young shoots; vigilance in spring is usually sufficient.
Did you know?
Meadow rue gets its Latin name from the Greek thaliktron, whose etymology remains mysterious. Its feathery and airy inflorescences, which seem to float above the foliage, made it a favorite flower in Victorian English gardens, where it symbolized delicacy and airy elegance.
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.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.