Meadowsweet, Filipendula ulmaria, has a very long history of herbal use, and it was one of the three most sacred herbs of the ancient Druids. The leaves and flowering stems have traditionally been used as an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, aromatic astringent, diuretic, stomachic and tonic. It's an attractive plant, ideal for growing in damp soil and boggy areas, such as the edge of a pond. It's mostly grown for its foliage, which emerges a fresh golden-green, fading to gold in summer, especially when grown in strong sun.
If allowed to flower, Filipendula ulmaria blooms have a strong, sweet scent, but the plant puts much of its energy into developing the flower spikes. However, by removing the flower spikes as soon as they become visible, plants remain vegetative and develop larger, more pronounced foliage. Not only does this look better, it also prevents plants self seeding, which may be a nuisance.
Grow Filipendula ulmaria in boggy soil in full sun to partial shade. Remove flowers to prevent self-seeding if necessary.
Plant calendar
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Sow
yes
yes
yes
Plant
yes
yes
Flowers
yes
yes
Divide
yes
yes
yes
Prune
yes
yes
Collect seeds
yes
yes
Filipendula and wildlife
Filipendula is known for attracting bees, beneficial insects, birds, butterflies/moths and other pollinators. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers and has seeds for birds.
