Overview
Thalictrum 'Black Stockings' is a columnar upright herbaceous perennial in the genus Thalictrum, part of the Ranunculaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1.5-2.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Thalictrum 'Black Stockings' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Suggested uses include architectural and cottage and informal garden.
About
Thalictrum 'Black Stockings' is a robust perennial that reaches heights of up to 2 meters. It features delicate, feathery leaves and stands out with its nearly black stems. In mid to late summer, this plant produces ample clusters of soft, purplish-pink blooms.
About the genus
Thalictrum consists of perennial plants that can be either rhizomatous or tuberous. They feature finely divided leaves that may be ternate or pinnate, and produce small flowers arranged in panicles or racemes. These flowers are notable for their prominent stamens and, in some species, large, colorful sepals that resemble petals.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Thalictrum
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Thalictrum 'Black Stockings' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, Cottage and informal garden
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Thalictrum 'Black Stockings'
- Cultivation
- Prefers moist, humus-rich soil in partial shade, though will tolerate a sunny position if not too dry
- Pruning
- Cut down stems once flowering is over
- Propagation
- Propagate by division in spring as new growth begins
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to powdery mildews in dry conditions
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Thalictrum 'Black Stockings'?
Prefers moist, humus-rich soil in partial shade, though will tolerate a sunny position if not too dry.
Where is the best place to plant Thalictrum 'Black Stockings'?
Thalictrum 'Black Stockings' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Thalictrum 'Black Stockings' need?
Thalictrum 'Black Stockings' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay and loam. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to poorly-drained.
How do I prune Thalictrum 'Black Stockings'?
Cut down stems once flowering is over.
How big does Thalictrum 'Black Stockings' grow?
Thalictrum 'Black Stockings' reaches a height of 1.5-2.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Thalictrum 'Black Stockings' hardy in the UK?
Thalictrum 'Black Stockings' has a UK hardiness rating of H7.
How do I propagate Thalictrum 'Black Stockings'?
Propagate by division in spring as new growth begins.