King Of The Meadow

(Thalictrum pubescens)

King Of The Meadow (Thalictrum pubescens)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Thalictrum pubescens, commonly known as King of the Meadow or Tall Meadow-Rue, is a perennial herb native to rich, moist woodlands, floodplains, and meadow habitats in eastern North America, from Canada to the southern United States, excluding Florida. This species typically reaches a height of 4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters) with a spread of 2 to 3 feet (0.6 to 0.9 meters). Tall Meadow-Rue is characterized by its upright, clump-forming habit and compound leaves that resemble those of columbine or maidenhair fern. The delicate, fluffy white flowers, which are actually clusters of stamens, appear in panicles from late spring to midsummer and are quite showy despite lacking petals.

King of the Meadow is valued for its airy texture and subtle floral display, which can add a wildflower meadow aesthetic to garden settings. It is often used in naturalized plantings, rain gardens, and as a border plant in shady areas. This species thrives in moist to wet soils with good organic content and can tolerate part shade to full shade conditions. While it is generally low-maintenance, it may require staking in very rich soils or windy sites. It is not known for serious disease or pest issues, but powdery mildew can sometimes be a problem in humid conditions. Thalictrum pubescens is not typically invasive, but it can self-seed in optimal growing conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 3.9-8 feet
  • Width: 2-3.9 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Purple, White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Rich, moist woodlands, floodplains, and meadow habitats

Other Names

Common Names: Hairy Meadow Rue, Tall Meadow Rue, Late Meadow-Rue, Muskratweed

Scientific Names: , Thalictrum pubescens, Anemone walteri, Leucocoma vegeta, Thalictrum bissellii, Thalictrum canadense var. hebecarpum, Thalictrum carolinianum, Thalictrum carolinianum var. subpubescens, Thalictrum cornuti var. dubitatum, Thalictrum cornuti var. stipitum

GBIF Accepted Name: