About
One of the largest flowering species with wiry stems and bluish-green leaves composed of leaflets; bicoloured lavender and yellow flowers 4cm wide, are held in sprays and borne in early to midsummer.
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 typeLoam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesGravel garden, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toSW China
ToxicityContact with foliage may irritate the skin. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist, but well-drained, 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 resistanceSlugs may be a problem
Disease resistanceSusceptible to powdery mildews in dry conditions