About
An upright, herbaceous perennial to 1.5m, with large, blue-green leaves divided into many small oblong leaflets. Large, open panicles of lilac-mauve flowers 2cm in width, with prominent cream stamens appear from July through to September.
About the 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
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectEast-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toChina Tibet
ToxicityContact with foliage may irritate the skin. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist, humus-rich soil in partial shade. May need staking. See staking perennials for further advice
PruningCut down stems once flowering is over
PropagationPropagate by seed in pots in a cold frame as soon as seed is ripe or in early spring. Propagate by division in spring as new growth begins
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews in dry conditions