Growing Guide
 
plant thumbnail

Rue, Meadow

Herbaceous Perennial Flower

Also known as Columbine Meadow Rue
Thalictrum aquilegifolium
Ranunculaceae Family

Lacy, fern-like foliage, soft, dainty flowers in shades of pink, white or purple and ornamental wing-like seeds give this perennial season-long interest.

arrow
arrow
arrow
Site Characteristics
Sunlight:
  • full sun
  • part shade

Soil conditions:

  • requires well-drained soil
Prefers fertile, moist but well-drained soil.

Hardiness zones:

  • 5 to 8
Plant Traits

Lifecycle: perennial

Ease-of-care: easy

Height: 2 to 3 feet

Spread: 1 to 1.5 feet

Bloom time:

  • late spring
  • early summer

Flower color:

  • violet
  • white
  • pink

Foliage color: medium green

Foliage texture: fine

Foliage has fern-like effect. Similar to Columbines.

Shape: cushion, mound or clump

Shape in flower: flower stalks with upright spikes

The tiny flowers are grouped into dense clusters atop erect flower stems.

Special Considerations
Special characteristics:
  • non-aggressive
  • non-invasive
  • not native to North America - Native to Europe, Asia
  • bears ornamental fruit - Clusters of pendulous, wing-like seeds.
Growing Information
How to plant:

Propagate by seed, division or separation - Sow seeds in the fall when they are fresh. Divide in the spring.

Maintenance and care:
Keep soil moist but not soggy. Mulch in colder climates.

More growing information: How to Grow Perennials

Varieties
�Purpureum�: dark purple flowers and stems.

�Thundercloud�: dark purple flowers.

�White Cloud�: dense clusters of pure white blooms.