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Thalictrum aquilegiifolium (Columbine meadow rue)

Photo/Illustration: Linda Wesley

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Botanical Name: Thalictrum aquilegiifolium thah-LIK-trum ak-will-ee-zsee-eye-FOE-lee-um

Common Name: Columbine meadow rue Genus: Thalictrum

The lacy leaves of this meadow rue look like a columbine's, hence the common and scientific names. But the leaves are actually gray-green and more delicate than its namesake. It bears clusters of long-lasting cottony flowers in shades of lilac, purple, or white in early summer. It is suitable for naturalizing in a meadow or woodland. These perennials grow to about 3 feet tall and half as wide.
Noteworthy characteristics: Thalictrum are native to stream banks, shaded mountains, and moist meadows throughout most of the globe.
Care: Provide moist, humus-rich soil in full sun or part shade. Thalictrum are late to emerge in mid- to late spring.
Propagation: Sow seed in a cold frame when fresh; divide as new growth appears in spring.
Problems: Powdery mildew, rust, white smut, leaf spots, slugs.

Overview
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Height	1 ft. to 3 ft.
Spread	1 ft. to 3 ft.
Growth Habit	Clumps
Growth Pace	Moderate Grower
Light	Full Sun to Part Shade
Moisture	Medium to Wet
Maintenance	Low
Characteristics	Showy Flowers; Showy Foliage
Bloom Time	Early Summer
Flower Color	Pink Flower; Purple/ Lavender Flower; White Flower
Uses	Beds and Borders, Ground Covers, Cut Flower, Naturalizing, Waterside
Style	Shade, Cottage Garden, Meadow Garden, Woodland Garden
Seasonal Interest	Spring Interest, Summer Interest
Type	Perennials

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