Meadow Rue (Thalictrum dasycarpum)
thah-LIK-trum dasycarpum

Deciduous Perennial in the Ranunculaceae Family

Thalictrum dasycarpum, commonly known as the purple meadow rue or tall meadow rue, is a striking perennial wildflower native to eastern and central North America. This herbaceous plant typically stands 4-6 feet tall, with an upright, branching growth habit that gives it an airy, delicate appearance. The finely dissected, blue-green foliage of Thalictrum dasycarpum is reminiscent of that of a columbine or maidenhair fern, adding textural interest to the plant. In early to midsummer, the meadow rue produces clusters of small, purple-tinged flowers that dangle gracefully from the plant's stems, creating an enchanting, cloud-like effect. These flowers eventually give way to fluffy, white seedheads that add further visual appeal as the growing season progresses. Preferring partial shade to full sun and moist, well-drained soil, the purple meadow rue thrives in woodland edges, meadows, and prairies, making it a wonderful choice for naturalistic or native plant gardens. This hardy perennial also attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, further enhancing its ecological value. With its distinctive foliage and captivating floral display, Thalictrum dasycarpum is a standout addition to any garden seeking a touch of woodland whimsy.
 

Plant Data

Mature Size 4 - 6 feet tall. 3 - 4 feet wide.
Sun Exposure Partial Shade - Full Sun
Moisture Tolerance Medium
Zones 4a - 7b (Usually hardy to -30° F)
Tags Deciduous, Full Sun, Illinois Native, Medium, Medium, Native to North America, Partial Shade, Partial Sun, Perennial, Spring Ephemeral
Bloom Period May to June
Flower Color White with Purple tinge
 

More Info from Experts
Meadow Rue
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Pricing and Availability History

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Limited Availability

We try very hard to source exactly what you’d like, but sometimes growers run out of plants! While this variety is a great deal at the price shown, we know that it has limited availability. If you want the plant even if it might be more expensive, or in a different size or quantity -- after you place your order, just send us a quick note at help@northshoreplantclub.com. Then, we’ll try to get you some version of this from one of our growers. And if we can’t get it from anywhere, of course, we’ll send a refund!


Field-Grown vs. Greenhouse-Grown Plants

Plants which are well-adapted to our local climate are most often field-grown (outside). Field-grown plants are generally cheaper and have the advantage of already somewhat acclimated to our cold winters, but that means they’re not artificially far along in the spring and tend to bloom at the normal time in our area.

Spring annuals and tender perennials are typically grown in Greenhouses so they can be ready and luxurious exactly when customers want them. Some perennials are also “forced” into early bloom in greenhouses. In May, there can be a very big difference between field-grown and greenhouse-grown plants of the same type. The latter typically look good right away (so they’re a great choice where that’s important), but we typically pay a premium for it.


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No Pricing or Availability Right Now

We order from a rotating cast of the best nurseries in the Great Lakes region. It looks like we've offered this plant in the past, but the nurseries we're working with this week don't appear to have it in stock at the moment.

Our goal is to bring as many plants together under "one roof" as possible, so we'll try hard to make it available again in the future!