Thalictrum minus
lesser meadow rue
A variable, clump-forming perennial, to 90cm tall and wide, with small 3- to 4-pinnate leaves with three or more rounded lobes. The tiny flowers borne on thin, wiry stems above the foliage are green, yellow or purple-tinted and carried in nodding heads
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Purple Yellow | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Ranunculaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- 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
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe to temp. Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moist, humus-rich soil in partial shade; can tolerate a sunny position provided the soil remains moist
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by division
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildflower meadow
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut down stems once flowering is over
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free but may be susceptible to powdery mildews in dry conditions
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