Fendler's Meadowrue
thalictrum fendleri
Also known as: ["Fendler's Meadowrue"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial native to North America, known for its delicate, feathery flowers and lacy foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Thalictrum |
| Botanical Name: | Thalictrum fendleri |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed with partial shade, or container in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to moderate-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; lightly prune throughout the growing season as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an older plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; provide afternoon shade in hot regions; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid intense midday sun; use sheer curtains for filtered light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; avoid waterlogging; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
moist, well-draining, fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend heavy clay with organic matter; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights and mild frosts.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from harsh winds; maintain consistent soil moisture.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize lightly to prevent excessive foliage at the expense of flowers; stop feeding in late summer to prepare for dormancy; water before fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings below a node.
- 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 actively growing but not flowering heavily.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 3–6 weeks; division can establish in the current season with proper care.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim back straggly stems; divide clumps every 3–4 years if overcrowded.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; cut back leggy growth to maintain shape; thin overcrowded stems for air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean knife, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools before use; prune dead or damaged stems; remove spent flowers; thin crowded areas.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or dormancy.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure good drainage; adjust for weather conditions.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; apply until water penetrates several inches deep; ensure excess drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter dormancy; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture and improve soil structure.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback in freezing temperatures; roots can suffer if soil freezes.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from frost with row covers or move containers indoors; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced; growth can become stunted.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to mild toxicity from Thalictrum fendleri if they consume the roots or seeds. The alkaloids can cause gastrointestinal irritation and mild systemic effects, though severe reactions are uncommon.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Thalictrum fendleri, particularly the roots and seeds, can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and discomfort. The alkaloids present may cause mild systemic effects, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThalictrum fendleri contains alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects upon ingestion. The plant's roots and seeds are the most toxic parts, capable of inducing physiological responses such as nausea and mild irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Thalictrum fendleri grow?
A: It typically reaches 2 to 4 feet in height.
Q: Does Thalictrum fendleri require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full shade, making it suitable for woodland gardens.
Q: Is Thalictrum fendleri deer resistant?
A: Yes, it is generally deer resistant due to its delicate foliage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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