Alpine Meadow-rue (Thalictrum alpinum)

Alpine Meadow-rue

Thalictrum alpinum

Delicate, airy blooms dance above alpine grasses. Low-growing perennial herb; common name: alpine meadow-rue.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Moderate
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Prefers dappled partial sun to full shade; tolerates cool, indirect mountain sunlight
💧
Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid complete drying during active growth
🌡️
Temperature Hardy to subarctic temperatures; thrives in cool, mild growing conditions
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Divided, fern-like blue-green foliage with smooth, rounded leaflets
  • Flower: Tiny star-shaped pale yellow or white blooms in loose, airy clusters
  • Stem: Slender, upright, finely branched stems with minimal hair growth
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Maintain even soil moisture; mist foliage during dry spells

Fertilization

Diluted organic feed once monthly. Use low-nitrogen organic feed to avoid excessive foliage growth

Composted eggshell powder:Sprinkle a thin layer around plant base; avoid direct root contact to prevent nutrient burn
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms to maintain tidy clump form
  • Trim back faded foliage in late autumn to prepare for winter dormancy
  • Thin overcrowded clumps in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats

Humans: No documented toxic effects for humans

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental alpine garden plant; low-growing ecological ground cover