Fendler’s Meadow-Rue

(Thalictrum fendleri)

Fendler’s Meadow-Rue (Thalictrum fendleri)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Thalictrum fendleri, commonly known as Fendler’s Meadow-Rue, is a semi-deciduous perennial herb that thrives in the understory of mixed coniferous-deciduous forests, montane riparian zones, and moist mountain meadows in the Southwestern USA, Mexico, and the Rocky Mountains. It can reach a height of 1–2 meters (3.3–6.6 ft) with erect, hairless stems that vary in color from green to purple. The foliage is delicate, with compound leaves divided into several segments, often with three lobes, and attached to long, slender petioles. The plant blooms with an upright or arching panicle of flowers, typically from late spring to early summer. Fendler’s Meadow-Rue is usually dioecious, meaning male and female flowers are found on separate plants, although hermaphroditic flowers have been observed. Male flowers feature a bell-shaped calyx with four sepals in greenish white or purple, and numerous long, dangling stamens with prominent anthers. Female flowers display a cluster of immature fruits with styles ranging from light to deep, bright pink, maturing to hard, black stubs. A single cluster can contain up to 20 fruits.

This species is valued for its airy, feathery foliage and subtle flower panicles which add a light, textural contrast in shaded garden areas. It is often used in naturalistic plantings, woodland gardens, and as a border plant. Fendler’s Meadow-Rue is relatively low maintenance, tolerating a range of soil drainage conditions and preferring part to full shade. While it requires minimal watering once established, consistent moisture will support more vigorous growth. Gardeners should be aware that this plant may require staking in windy areas, and it can be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions. It is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease problems.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 3-4 feet
  • Width: 5-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Cream
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant

Natural Habitat

Mixed coniferous-deciduous forests, montane riparian zones, and moist mountain meadows

Other Names

Common Names: Fendler’s Meadowrue

Scientific Names: , Thalictrum fendleri, Thalictrum fendleri var. fendleri, Thalictrum fendleri var. quadrinervatum, Thalictrum fendleri var. sinuosum, Thalictrum fendleri var. platycarpum, Thalictrum amissum,

GBIF Accepted Name: Thalictrum fendleri Engelm. ex A.Gray