Tuesday, October 25, 2011

THALICTRUM

A buttercup family (Ranunculaceae) genus of around 130 species of tuberous or rhizome-rooted perennials, Thalictrum is found mainly in the northern temperate zone, with a few species straying south of the equator into the tropics. They are upright plants with lacy, pinnate, blue-green leaves reminiscent of aquilegia or maidenhair fern foliage. Tall elegant flower stems grow well above the foliage, and from late spring to autumn, depending on the species, the stems bear clusters of small fluffy flowers. Occurring mainly in pink and mauve, but also in white and yellow, the petalless flowers may sometimes gain color from the 4 to 5 petallike sepals. Also known as meadow rue, Thalictrum plants were significant in the herbal lore and medicine of ancient Rome.


CULTIVATION


These plants are mostly hardy and easily grown in a temperate climate in full or half sun. The soil should be fertile, humus-rich, and well-drained. It is usually propagated by division, as cultivated plants are mainly selected forms.


Top Tip


Thalictrum species are useful plants in woodland gardens, borders, or rock gardens. The ferny foliage is an effective backdrop in floral arrangements.

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