Thalictrum petaloideum - Meadow-rue

Thalictrum petaloideum is a wild meadow rue native to temperate Asian prairies, known for its modest size, white and airy early summer flowering, and delicate blue-green columbine-like foliage. In the garden, this collectible perennial plant thrives in a prominent spot in a moderately dry rockery or border, in well-drained soil, even if it is limestone.

Thalictrum petaloideum, of the Ranunculaceae family, is a botanical species native to Korea, Mongolia, Siberia, and China, where it is found on grassy slopes and in meadows, between 700 and 3000 meters (2297 and 9842 feet) above sea level. It is a deciduous herbaceous plant with a rhizomatous and perennial root system, with vegetation emerging from the ground in spring and disappearing in winter. It forms a bushy clump that reaches about 35 cm (14in) in height when in flower, with a diameter of 30 cm (12in). The stems are branched from the base. Its foliage consists of leaves 10-15 cm (4-6in) long, divided three or four times, with small generally ovate leaflets, of a blue-green colour. From this clump of leaves rise highly branched panicle inflorescences, blooming from June to July, for 4 to 5 weeks. They are adorned with tiny flowers composed of very thin cream-coloured petals, giving them a cloudy appearance. Meadow rues, generally slow to establish, become more beautiful over time. They are quite hardy but do not appreciate competition from nearby roots.

Delicately textured and subtly blooming with a white mist, this small meadow rue undoubtedly brings a light and refined touch to borders and rockeries. It will find its place in a natural or romantic-inspired garden, exposed to not too harsh sunlight. It will be particularly effective in front of shrubs such as Viburnum, Osmanthus, and Spiraea. In borders, for example, combine it with perennial geraniums, pulsatilla anemones, or spring bulbs. However, be careful not to associate it with overly exuberant plants that could smother it.