Thalictrum occidentale, commonly known as Western Meadow-rue, is a perennial herb native to the moist, shady environments of the Pacific Northwest, including Alaska, western Canada, and extending to northern California, Wyoming, and Colorado. It thrives in the understory of coniferous forests, as well as in riparian zones and moist mountain meadows. Western Meadow-rue typically reaches up to 1 meter in height and is characterized by its delicate, compound leaves that resemble columbine or maidenhair fern. The plant produces dioecious flowers in the spring, with male flowers showcasing long, showy purple stamens, and female flowers displaying clusters of greenish immature fruits that mature to achenes. The flowers are not particularly showy but have a subtle charm.

Western Meadow-rue is valued for its ethereal foliage and naturalistic appearance, making it a suitable choice for woodland gardens, shade gardens, and naturalized areas. It is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established in a suitable location. Gardeners should provide it with moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade to mimic its native habitat conditions. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases or pests, its preference for moist conditions can make it susceptible to root rot if drainage is inadequate. This species is not known for aggressive roots or invasiveness, but it can self-seed in optimal growing conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0