Meadow Rue
thalictrum aquilegiifolium
Also known as: ["Aquilegia-leaved Meadow Rue"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with delicate, columbine-like foliage and airy, nodding flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Thalictrum |
| Botanical Name: | Thalictrum aquilegiifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed with partial shade, especially in warmer climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; annually in late fall or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or spent parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun); protect from harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; avoid sudden exposure to intense light; place in dappled shade in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak afternoon hours; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water at the base to avoid foliage wetting.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Mulch to retain moisture; avoid compacted soil; ensure good aeration.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F); tolerates cooler nights but avoids extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in late autumn.
Propagation
Methods
Division or root cuttings in early spring or fall.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps carefully.
- Replant divisions at the same depth.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
Best Time: Early spring or fall when the plant is not in active bloom.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; keep soil consistently moist.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with compost or peat moss.
Hormone
Optional, but can aid root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment takes 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Garden fork, sharp knife, pruning shears, pots.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor; ensure each division has healthy roots and shoots.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead flowers; cut back old stems to the base in fall.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; cut back foliage in late fall.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean blades.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove only necessary parts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; replant in fresh soil with good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Use fresh potting mix; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning or late evening; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring root zone saturation; avoid frequent shallow watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during growing season; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or frost damage in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration; prolonged cold can lead to root damage.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.
Solution: Increase watering frequency; provide shade during peak sun hours; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Thalictrum aquilegiifolium, particularly due to their smaller size. The isoquinoline alkaloids can cause gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms, which may require veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Thalictrum aquilegiifolium can lead to gastrointestinal upset and mild neurological disturbances due to the presence of isoquinoline alkaloids. The effects are generally mild but can be more severe in small or sensitive breeds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThalictrum aquilegiifolium contains isoquinoline alkaloids, which can cause gastrointestinal distress and neurological symptoms upon ingestion. The plant's toxic compounds interfere with neuromuscular function and can lead to systemic effects if consumed in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Thalictrum aquilegiifolium require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
Q: How tall does Thalictrum aquilegiifolium grow?
A: It typically reaches 3 to 5 feet in height.
Q: Is Thalictrum aquilegiifolium deer resistant?
A: Yes, it is generally deer resistant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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