Thalictrum aquilegiifolium: Columbine Meadow Rue for Lacy Foliage and Cottony Flowers

Columbine Meadow Rue (Thalictrum aquilegiifolium) has lacy gray-green leaves resembling columbine, but more delicate. Bears clusters of long-lasting cottony flowers in lilac, purple, or white in early summer. Grows about 3 feet tall and half as wide. Suitable for naturalizing in meadow or woodland. Native to stream banks, shaded mountains, and moist meadows worldwide.

Growing Conditions

Moist, humus-rich soil in full sun or part shade. Late to emerge in mid-to-late spring. Propagate by sowing seed in cold frame when fresh, or divide as new growth appears in spring. Watch for powdery mildew, rust, white smut, leaf spots, slugs.

Key Features at a Glance

• Height: 1–3 ft.
• Spread: 1–3 ft.
• Growth Habit: Clumping, Moderate
• Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Moisture: Medium to Wet
• Maintenance: Low
• Characteristics: Showy Flowers, Showy Foliage
• Bloom Time: Early Summer
• Flower Color: Pink, Purple, White
• Uses: Beds, Borders, Cut Flower, Ground Cover, Naturalizing, Waterside, Cottage Garden, Meadow Garden, Shade, Woodland Garden
• Type: Perennials