Greater Meadow Rue (Thalictrum aquilegiifolium)

Greater Meadow Rue

Thalictrum aquilegiifolium

Lacy, cloud-like blooms float above ferny foliage, softening garden borders. Herbaceous perennial; common name: Greater Meadow Rue.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Partial to full sun; tolerates light shade, especially in hot summer climates to prevent foliage scorch
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Cold hardy to -30°C; prefers cool to temperate summer temperatures below 28°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Fern-like compound leaves with blue-green to bright green delicate leaflets
  • Flower: Tiny star-shaped blooms in loose airy panicles; colors range from pale lavender to white or pink
  • Stem: Slender upright green stems with a slightly waxy texture
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during active growth

Fertilization

Apply a balanced organic top-dress once at the start of growth. Over-fertilization may lead to leggy stems and reduced flowering

Composted banana peel tea:Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 with water for root drenching to avoid nutrient burn
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage prolonged flowering through early summer
  • Cut back the entire plant to ground level after the first autumn frost to prepare for winter dormancy
  • Thin overcrowded clumps in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects for humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden plant; attracts pollinators including bees and butterflies