Overview

Thalictrum 'Elin' is a clump forming 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 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Thalictrum 'Elin' grows best in 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 cottage and informal garden, city and courtyard gardens and architectural.

About

Thalictrum 'Elin' is a robust, upright perennial that forms clumps and can reach heights of up to 2.5 meters. It features blue-green foliage made up of three to four leaflets arranged in a ternate pattern, supported by dark purple stems. In the summer, it produces airy panicles of soft lavender-pink blooms, accented by noticeable creamy-yellow stamens. This variety stands out due to its height.

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
Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Thalictrum 'Elin' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
1.5-2.5 metres
Spread
0.5-1 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens, Architectural

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Thalictrum 'Elin'

Cultivation
Grow in moisture-retentive, humus-rich but well-drained soil in partial shade, and provide support if necessary, for example by growing among shrubs. See staking perennials for further advice
Pruning
No pruning required
Propagation
Propagate by division as new growth begins in spring; divisions may be slow to re-establish
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to slugs
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to powdery mildews in dry conditions

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Thalictrum 'Elin'?

Grow in moisture-retentive, humus-rich but well-drained soil in partial shade, and provide support if necessary, for example by growing among shrubs. See staking perennials for further advice.

Where is the best place to plant Thalictrum 'Elin'?

Thalictrum 'Elin' prefers partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Thalictrum 'Elin' need?

Thalictrum 'Elin' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Thalictrum 'Elin'?

No pruning required.

How big does Thalictrum 'Elin' grow?

Thalictrum 'Elin' reaches a height of 1.5-2.5 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.

Is Thalictrum 'Elin' hardy in the UK?

Thalictrum 'Elin' has a UK hardiness rating of H7.

How do I propagate Thalictrum 'Elin'?

Propagate by division as new growth begins in spring; divisions may be slow to re-establish.