Queen of the Prairie
filipendula rubra
Also known as: ["Queen of the Prairie","Filipendula rubra"]
Overview
A tall, herbaceous perennial native to North America, known for its large, feathery plumes of pinkish-white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Filipendula |
| Botanical Name: | Filipendula rubra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed with partial shade, protected from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- 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 content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or damaged growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an older plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun, filtered afternoon light); adjust based on seasonal intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun; provide dappled light in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid intense afternoon sun; adjust shade as needed.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not waterlogged; amend with organic matter for fertility; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in spring when new growth appears; reduce frequency in late summer; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer 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 for drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pots within 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, moist propagation medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; cut back leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; thin out crowded stems to improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize 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 (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; increase frequency during hot, dry periods; reduce in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges in excessive heat; yellowing or drooping leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback; roots become susceptible to rot in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants to sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may stall; soil dries out quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicFilipendula rubra is not considered toxic to cats. It poses no known health risks when ingested or handled by cats.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicFilipendula rubra is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects when ingested or handled by dogs.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicFilipendula rubra is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known significant toxic effects on human physiology.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Filipendula rubra grow?
A: It typically grows to 4–6 feet tall.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun, though it can tolerate some shade.
Q: Is it deer resistant?
A: It is moderately deer resistant, though deer may occasionally browse on it.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
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