Filipendula vulgaris hexapetala

The Filipendula vulgaris, also known as the Common Dropwort or Dropwort Spirea, is a hardy rhizomatous perennial, capable of adapting to various growing conditions as long as it is planted in partial shade. Its small, single flowers, resembling those of spireas, are creamy white in colour and are borne on elegant stems adorned with finely cut foliage. Despite its delicate appearance, it is robust and suitable for naturalistic or countryside plantings, mixed with other plants without any concerns.

Belonging to the large family of Rosaceae, the Common Dropwort is distributed throughout most of Europe, western and northern Asia, as well as Algeria and Morocco. It is a perennial plant that thrives in meadows and woods, and mainly grows in acidic or calcareous soils. In France, it can be found throughout the majority of the territory, except in the north. From May to August, it produces lovely pink-tinged buds that open into clusters of 5-petaled flowers, measuring 1.5cm (1in) in width and emitting a slight fragrance. Its deciduous foliage is dark green, finely divided, and toothed like that of a fern. It forms a basal rosette. It has an upright habit and reaches a height of 60cm (24in) with a width of 40cm (16in).

The Filipendula vulgaris, sometimes called Filipendula hexapetala, is quite similar to the Queen of the Prairie. It is an undemanding plant, hardy down to -15°C (5°F), that can tolerate average or heavy, alkaline soils. However, it performs best in rich, humus-rich soil in full sun or partial shade. Although this plant is tolerant of dry soils, it is recommended to provide regular watering to prevent weakening and susceptibility to mildew.

In the garden, it creates an impressive display when planted en masse in a damp woodland or near a pond or marsh. Airy, ethereal, and almost feathery, it adds a sense of lightness to your flower beds. It can be easily paired with numerous other perennials such as Blackfield Persicaria Knotweed, Purple Eupatorium, and Chinese Loosestrife.