Species meadow rue
light-purple flowers with lime center and purple buds on dark-brown stems

meadow rue

Thalictrum delavayi

Meadow Rue (Thalictrum Delavayi) is a tall, erect perennial with delicate, feathery foliage and tall stalks of purple flowers. It is hardy in zones 4-9 and prefers partial to full shade. The clusters of airy, mildly fragrant blooms will attract many pollinators to the garden. The petite flowers are later followed by winged pods, adding interest to the garden in late summer. Meadow rue makes a striking statement in mixed borders and woodland areas, adding height and texture to any landscape. It enjoys moist, rich soils and will thrive in areas that get morning sun, but afternoon shade. With proper care and maintenance, this perennial will return annually and will provide a delightful presence in your garden.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 7

Flowers:

Lilac Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Meadow Rue (Thalictrum delavayi) generally needs to be watered moderately and consistently, with about 1 deep watering every week during the growing season (usually Mid-spring to Early-fall). The soil should be kept moist but not soggy; a soil moisture meter can be used to check the soil's moisture before watering. During the winter months, water should only be applied when the soil starts to dry out, usually about once every 2 to 3 weeks.

sunlight

Meadow rue (Thalictrum delavayi) needs 4-5 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth. It prefers partial shade during the hottest parts of the day, around midday and afternoon. In summer, exposure to morning sunlight is best. Thriving in the sun, it can still tolerate some shade, and with proper care, can flower even in shaded areas.

pruning

Meadow rue (Thalictrum delavayi) is a hardy perennial that requires minimal pruning. It should be given a light pruning in the spring once it starts to grow. This pruning should involve removing dead and damaged stems, as well as any side shoots that occur close to the base of a stem. Pruning can be done after flowering in late spring/early summer if required, involving the removal of any dead or damaged flowers and shortening some of the stems to encourage thick growth. Meadow rue should not be dramatically pruned; light pruning is best for keeping the plant looking healthy and beautiful.

Season

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

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

Starts Flowering

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

Hardiness Map