Tuberous Meadow-rue (Thalictrum tuberosum)

Tuberous Meadow-rue

Thalictrum tuberosum

Delicate feathery blooms dance in meadow breezes. Perennial herbaceous wildflower; common name: tuberous meadow-rue.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Partial shade to full sun; tolerates dappled woodland light, avoid intense midday sun exposure
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Watering Water when top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging, as tuberous roots are prone to rot in saturated soil
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; prefers cool to temperate temperatures, avoid prolonged heat above 28°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Compound, fern-like, blue-green foliage with delicate, divided leaflets
  • Flower: Tiny, star-shaped, pale lilac or white blooms in loose, airy clusters
  • Stem: Slender, upright, smooth green stems with branching inflorescences
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged to support active growth and flowering

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced organic feed once monthly. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can reduce bloom production

Composted banana peel tea:Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to support healthy flower development and root growth
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms promptly to encourage prolonged flowering through early summer
  • Cut back all stems to ground level after foliage dies back naturally in late autumn
  • Thin overcrowded clumps every 2–3 years in early spring to improve airflow and reduce competition
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported adverse effects

Humans: No known toxic effects for humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental wildflower for meadow gardens, cut flower arrangements, and pollinator-friendly plantings