How to grow thalictrums

Take a look at our handy thalictrum Grow Guide, below.

Where to grow thalictrums

Most species of thalictrum are happy growing in sun or partial shade, in rich, moist but well-drained soil.

How to plant thalictrums

If you have a pot-grown thalictrum, dig a generous hole and add some good open compost, particularly if your soil is clay-based. Back fill and water in well.

Propagating thalictrums

Thalictrums can be divided in spring or early autumn to make more plants. Choose a clump that is well established, dig up and split with a spade. Replant new sections and water well.

Video: How to divide herbaceous perennials

Thalictrum: problem solving

Thalictrums are not prone to any pests and disease.

Caring for meadow rue

Thalictrums are very low-maintenance, apart from requiring staking for taller varieties. Cut down the stems after flowering, but be careful when pruning as the sap can irritate the skin.

Thalictrums to grow

• Thalictrum aquilegiifolium ‘Thundercloud’ – about 1m in height, with double, lavender-pink blooms on purple stems, this makes an excellent cut flower
• Thalictrum delavayi – pale lilac to white flowers appear from mid-summer to early autumn on this Chinese meadow rue. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it the prestigious Award of Garden Merit (AGM)
• Thalictrum filamentosum – the small white flowers appear on green-red stems
• Thalictrum aquilegiifolium var. album – a tall variety that grows up to 1.4m, with pure-white blooms. This will need staking
• Thalictrum tuberosum – native to the Pyrenees, this alpine meadow rue has large, cream-white flowers, and unlike other thalictrum species, will grow in full sun and free draining soil
• Thalictrum minus ‘Adiantifolium’ – this dwarf form grows to 60cm and has yellow flowers in July and August
• Thalictrum kiusianum – a tiny species thalictrum that suits containers or an alpine planting scheme. Lavender-blue flowers appear just above the low growing mat of foliage in summer