Meadowsweet
filipendula ulmaria
Also known as: ["Queen of the Meadow","Meadox","Meadwort"]
Overview
A perennial herb native to Europe and Asia, known for its fragrant, creamy-white flowers and medicinal properties.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Filipendula |
| Botanical Name: | Filipendula ulmaria |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: moist garden beds or near water features
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining to moist.
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight or bright indirect light). Adjust for hotter climates to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight; provide shade during peak afternoon hours in hot climates; ensure adequate air circulation to prevent leaf burn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh afternoon sun; adjust shade as needed.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently in hot weather
Maintain consistent soil moisture; avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency with seasons.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is rich in organic matter; maintain consistent moisture; improve drainage if necessary.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but may struggle in extreme heat.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain moderate temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Use a balanced fertilizer; dilute to half strength; fertilize during active growth only.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch stem cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Early spring or early fall when the plant is not in full bloom.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but can help speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, peat-based mix, perlite.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity; keep warm and moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim back leggy stems; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or diseased parts; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone to encourage deep root growth, ensuring water reaches the entire root ball. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall. Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during spring and summer, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in fall and winter, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to frost damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; mulch around the base to insulate roots; move potted plants indoors during freezes.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow or stop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; improve air circulation around the plant.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize in spring/summer; avoid fall/winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are also sensitive to the salicylic acid in Filipendula ulmaria and may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they consume significant amounts. The plant is not highly toxic but should be consumed in moderation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicSimilar to humans, dogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume large amounts of Filipendula ulmaria due to its salicylic acid content. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort if ingested excessively.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicFilipendula ulmaria contains salicylic acid, which can cause mild gastrointestinal upset and other symptoms if consumed in large amounts. The plant is generally considered safe for culinary use in moderation but can be toxic in excessive quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Meadowsweet safe for pets?
A: Yes, Meadowsweet is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the medicinal uses of Meadowsweet?
A: Historically, Meadowsweet has been used to treat pain, inflammation, and digestive issues due to its salicylic acid content.
Q: How should Meadowsweet be cared for?
A: Meadowsweet prefers moist, fertile soil and partial shade, and it should be watered regularly to prevent wilting.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
