Thalictrum flavum
common meadow rue
A clump-forming deciduous perennial about 1m tall, with highly divided, lacey green leaves to 40cm long, and in summer narrow terminal panicles of fluffy lemon yellow flowers
Other common names
false rhubarbfen rue
see moremaidenhair meadow rue
poor man's rhubarb
small meadow rue
yellow meadow rue
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Neutral, Acid, AlkalineColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Ranunculaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Thalictrum can be rhizomatous or tuberous perennials with ternately or pinnately divided, often attractive foliage, and panicles or racemes of small flowers with showy stamens and sometimes large colourful petal-like sepals
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moist, humus-rich soil in partial shade; can tolerate drier soil and more sun than many other species. May need staking. See staking perennials for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed or division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Faded flower stems can be cut back in late autumn or in spring before new growth starts emerging
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to Powdery mildews
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.