Species meadow rue
white-yellow flowers with lime-green leaves and stems

meadow rue

Thalictrum dasycarpum

Meadow rue (Thalictrum dasycarpum) is a tall perennial wildflower that can reach heights of up to four feet. It is a native of North America, where it can be found in sunny meadows and woodlands. Its hairy, toothed oval leaves are a rich green in color, and produce small, yellow-green flowers in late spring and early summer. While its seeds are dispersed by the wind, it is also able to self-seed to form small colonies. Meadow rue is easy to grow, with its shallow roots making it ideal for gardens with shallow soil. Its graceful fronds make it a great addition to cottage-style gardens.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Root Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 7

Flowers:

Purple white Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Meadow rue (Thalictrum dasycarpum) can be watered once a week when it is actively growing in the spring and summer months. During this time, the soil should be kept moist but not soggy. In periods of extreme heat or drought, it may need to be watered more frequently. When the foliage turns yellow or brown, reduce watering. In the fall and winter months, water only when the soil is completely dry. It should not be watered at all when it is dormant.

sunlight

Meadow Rue (Thalictrum dasycarpum) grows best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers about 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day and will tolerate partial shade. It should be placed in an area where it gets morning sun and afternoon shade or some afternoon shade during the warmest part of the day. Direct sunlight should be avoided in hot, midday sun as the plant may become scorched or stressed.

pruning

Meadow rue (Thalictrum dasycarpum) should be pruned during late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Prune lightly, taking off only the dead, dying, or overly tall stems. Be sure to cut back old and dead stems to the main crown of the plant, as this will encourage more bushy growth during the upcoming season. You should also remove any weak or slim stems that have fewer blossoms or seed heads. Pruning should be done with hand pruners or shears, or with a hedge trimmer. It's important to leave a few tall stems to maintain seed production and provide additional structure. After pruning, add a thin layer of mulch to the base of the plant to retain soil moisture, provide insulation, and prevent the growth of weeds.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Thalictrum dasycarpum typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Thalictrum dasycarpum typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map