About
A clump-forming deciduous perennial about 1m tall, with greyish blue-green stems and leaves to 40cm long that are composed of 3 or 4-lobed leaflets, and in summer large, terminal panicles of fluffy, perfumed, pale sulphur yellow flowers.
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
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toSW Europe to N Africa
FragranceFlower
ToxicityContact with foliage may irritate the skin. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist, humus-rich soil, best partial shade but can tolerate drier soil and more sun than many other species. May need staking. See staking perennials for further advice
PruningFaded flower stems can be cut back in late autumn or in spring before new growth starts emerging
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