Thalictrum polygamum (23/06/2013, Kew Gardens, London)
Position: Full sun to partial shade
Flowering period: Summer
Soil: Moist, well drained
Eventual Height: 2.5m
Eventual Spread: 80cm
Hardiness: 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a
Family: Ranunculaceae
Thalictrum polygamum is a clump forming, upright evergreen herbaceous perennial. Its mid green leaves are compound, odd or even pinnate, with each leaflet having three lobes. Its white/ cream flowers are fluffy in appearance and appear in large panicles.
Thalictrum polygamum Flower (23/06/2013, Kew Gardens, London)
Thalictrum polygamum, commonly known as the Tall Meadow Rue or Muskrat Weed, is native to east North America. In its native habitat it grows on stream sides and damp areas. Thalictrum polygamum is synonymous with Thalictrum pubescens.
The etymological root of the binomial name Thalictrum is derived from the Greek thaliktron, a name used by Dioscorides for another pant. Polygamum is derived from the Greek meaning ‘containing both unisexual and bisexual flowers’.
The landscape architect may find Thalictrum polygamum useful as a large herbaceous perennial suitable for planting in damp locations. Its foliage is not attractive to deer and rabbits.
Ecologically, Thalictrum polygamum flowers are attractive to pollinating insects.
Thalictrum polygamum Leaf (23/06/2013, Kew Gardens, London)
Thalictrum polygamum prefers moist, humus rich, well-drained soils. It tolerates most pH of soil. It will tolerate wet soils.
Thalictrum polygamum requires little maintenance. To keep a tidy appearance stems may be cut after flowering.
