Thalictrum flavum subsp. glaucum (Yellow Meadow Rue)

Thalictrum flavum subsp. glaucum (Yellow Meadow Rue) is a robust, rhizomatous, clump-forming perennial boasting striking silvery blue leaves divided into many leaflets. The foliage is so handsome that it is prized in floral decorations. In early to midsummer, clouds of slightly fragrant, fluffy yellow flowers appear above the foliage.

Thalictrum flavum subsp. glaucum (Yellow Meadow Rue) is a robust, rhizomatous, clump-forming perennial boasting striking silvery blue leaves divided into many leaflets. The foliage is so handsome that it is prized in floral decorations. In early to midsummer, clouds of slightly fragrant, fluffy yellow flowers appear above the foliage. Perfect, the flowers consist of pale yellow sepals and bright yellow stamens, and are held in an upright pyramidal panicle, 2-4 in. across (5-10 cm). Magnificent in bloom, Yellow Meadow Rue is equally beautiful when not in bloom, thanks to its glaucous foliage. Low maintenance, deer resistant, it is fairly tolerant of warm, humid summers. Thalictrum flavum subsp. glaucum is highly effective in the garden.

  • Grows up to 2-4 ft. tall and wide (60-120 cm). This plant may need staking.
  • Thrives in rich, humusy, moist, well-drained soils in full sun or part shade. Dappled shade is preferred. Keep soil moist but not soggy. Mulch in colder climates.
  • Fits beautifully in any beds and borders, cottage gardens, wildflower gardens.
  • Generally pest free. Keep an eye out for powdery mildews.
  • Propagate by seed in pots in a cold frame as soon as seed is ripe or in early spring. Propagate by division in spring as new growth begins.
  • Contact with foliage may irritate the skin.
  • Native to Spain, northwestern Africa.

Requirements

Hardiness 5
– 8

Heat Zones 9
– 10

Climate Zones 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17
Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Thalictrum – Meadow Rues
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)Fall
Height 2'
– 4'
(60cm
– 120cm)
Spread 2'
– 4'
(60cm
– 120cm)
Spacing 36″
– 48″
(90cm
– 120cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Poorly Drained
Characteristics Fragrant, Showy
Tolerance Deer
Garden Uses Beds and Borders
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow