Thalictrum Black Stockings - Meadow-rue

The Thalictrum Black Stockings or meadow rue is a magnificent perennial with an upright habit. Its lavender flowers take on a soft and velvety appearance as they ripen and are carried by tall, slender brown-purple almost black stems. This is a recent introduction that is an absolute must-see.

This meadow rue native to Europe and North Asia belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. Its very bright green leaves are divided into three lobed leaflets and resemble the shape of columbine leaves. They form a highly branched bush from which brown-purple stems appear bearing a multitude of lilac to mauve flowers arranged in airy umbels. The flowers have no petals but some sepals and an impressive number of stamens in a cluster that give them an astonishing velvety texture reminiscent of Ageratum houstonianum or Eupatorium coelestinum.

The visual experience creates tactile flowers which becomes irresistible to caress. This Thalictrum particularly enjoys moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. It thrives in the sun but will reach its full potential in partial shade. With its 1 metre (3 feet) height, 45 cm (18in) spread, and contrasting colours, it adds volume and verticality to lightly shaded or semi-shaded beds.

In the company of asters, Japanese anemones, and bleeding hearts, Thalictrum Black Stocking will produce beautiful flowers during a large part of summer. You can enhance the shady and slightly damp areas of the garden by creating a pleasant haven of moisture.