meadow rue
Thalictrum delavayi
USDA zones4 to 7
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size3 to 5 feet tall18 to 24 inches wide
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- Lilac
- Soil types
- Loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Meadow rue (Thalictrum delavayi) is a perennial for borders and low-maintenance gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 4, or down to -30°F (-34°C). This plant likes full or part sun and average to moist, loamy, clay, or chalky soil. It is not a favorite of deer or rabbits, though hungry ones will eat almost anything. Dark purple stems carry pendulous buds that open to lavender petals above dangling yellowish stamens in summer. Bees visit the flowers, and the airy plants look best at the middle to back of the border.
Pairs well with Monkshood, Festiva Maxima peony, and Damask rose.
Native range
China, Myanmar, and Tibet.