The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Meadow rueis the common name for several species of theThalictrumgenus.
Meadow Rue Care
Meadow rue is relatively easy to grow if a few care requirements are met.
The need for shade is more pronounced near the southern end of the hardiness range.
Some species will do well in nearly full shade.
Water
For best results, keep meadow rue plants moist but not soggy.
If planted in typical well-draining garden soil, about one inch of water per week keeps it happy.
If grown infull sun, it will require more water.
Generally, this plant does not like the hot and humid summers of the deep south.
Fertilizer
No feeding is recommended for these plants if the soil is suitably rich.
In poor soils, a yearly program of balanced fertilizer might be helpful.
Deadheading might slightly extend the bloom period somewhat, but don’t expect a months-long bloom period.
This kind of pruning doesn’t harm the plant; it will return with vigor the following year.
Propagating Meadow Rue
Meadow rue can be propagated by division or seeds.
Like many shade-tolerant flowers, it does not like to be moved.
Should you want to try it, use a large, well-draining pot filled with standard potting mix.
You will need to water container-grown plants more frequently.
These slow-growing plants don’t need repotting very often; every few years will suffice.
Exposed above ground in containers, the roots are more susceptible to cold.
Overwintering
Cut foliage and flower stalks back to just above ground level as winter approaches.
This can also be done earlier if the foliage succumbs to summer heat.
The most common ispowdery mildewand rust.
ensure the planting site has plenty of good air circulation to prevent this.Slugsand snails might feed on the foliage.
How Long Does Meadow Rue Bloom?
Most types of meadow rue will bloom for about three weeks.
What do Meadow Rue Blooms Look and Smell Like?
The plant is often mistaken for columbine because its leaves and drooping flowers bear a resemblance to that plant.
The flowers are small and can be yellow, white, lilac, or lavender.
Depending on the throw in, they can be slightly fragrant.
Common Problems with Meadow Rue
Problems with meadow rue pants are few and far between.
Most species grow two to four feet wide, so space them accordingly in your garden.
This is not recommended for several reasons.
Wild plants can be difficult to transplant and may not survive the move.
It’s also often illegal to collect wild species from public lands, so check the legalities first.
Clemson University Home and Garden Information Center.
Thalictrum flavum ‘Illuminator’.Missouri Botanical Garden.
Wildflowers Ethics and Native Plants.
United States Department of Agriculture.
