Overview
Filipendula vulgaris is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Filipendula, part of the Rosaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Filipendula vulgaris grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates clay and loam soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. It is attractive to pollinators. Suggested uses include wildlife gardens, cottage and informal garden and wildflower meadow. It is native to Europe to C Asia.
About
Filipendula vulgaris is a perennial that develops a rosette of serrated dark green leaves made up of distinct leaflets. In early to midsummer, it produces airy clusters of creamy-white flowers, which may show hints of pink or red in their buds, all supported by slender, branching stems.
About the genus
Filipendula consists of herbaceous perennials that spread through rhizomes. They feature pinnately divided leaves and produce abundant clusters of small flowers, which can be rosy-pink or white, situated on leafy stems that rise prominently above the foliage.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Filipendula
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Filipendula vulgaris size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Wildlife gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow
- Native to
- Europe to C Asia
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Filipendula vulgaris
- Cultivation
- Grow in fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained in full sun or partial shade; tolerant of less moisture than other species
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed sown in containers in spring, or by division in spring or autumn; take root cuttings and place horizontally in a seed tray, from late winter to early spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to powdery mildews and a fungal leaf spot
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Filipendula vulgaris?
Grow in fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained in full sun or partial shade; tolerant of less moisture than other species.
Where is the best place to plant Filipendula vulgaris?
Filipendula vulgaris prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Filipendula vulgaris need?
Filipendula vulgaris grows best in clay and loam soil. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Filipendula vulgaris?
Cut back after flowering.
How big does Filipendula vulgaris grow?
Filipendula vulgaris reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Filipendula vulgaris hardy in the UK?
Filipendula vulgaris has a UK hardiness rating of H6.
How do I propagate Filipendula vulgaris?
Propagate by seed sown in containers in spring, or by division in spring or autumn; take root cuttings and place horizontally in a seed tray, from late winter to early spring.
Is Filipendula vulgaris good for pollinators?
Yes — Filipendula vulgaris attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.