Thalictrum dioicum
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Species Native to Missouri
Common Name: meadow rue
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Family: Ranunculaceae
Zone: 4 to 7
Native Range: Quebec to North Dakota, Georgia, Missouri
Garden Location: Martha Love Symington Missouri Native Shade Garden
Height: 1 to 2 feet
Spread: 1 to 2 feet
Bloom Time: April to May
Bloom Color: White
Bloom Description: Green white with a purplish tinge
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Medium
Flowers: Showy Flowers
Tolerates: Deer
Uses: Cut Flower

Culture

Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Prefers moist, rich, humusy soil and dappled sun. Intolerant of hot and humid conditions.

Noteworthy Characteristics

An early meadow rue growing 1-2' tall. Features lacy, fine-textured, gray-green, compound foliage (superficially resembling columbine or maidenhair fern) and panicles of tiny, drooping, greenish-white flowers often with a purple tinge which appear in late spring (April-May). Species name refers to the fact that plants are dioecious (male and female flowers are on separate plants). Male flower has yellowish stamens and female flower has purplish pistils. Missouri native that is usually found on wooded slopes, ravines or ledges near outcroppings of limestone rock.

Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Powdery mildew and rust are only occasional problems. Taller plants may need staking or other support.

Garden Uses

Provides early spring color and contrast to the perennial border, wildflower garden, meadow or naturalized area. Cool, gray-green foliage provides an attractive complement to later blooming perennials in the border.

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