Thalictrum ichangense 'Purple Marble'

Plants in the Meadow rue genus, Thalictrum, have aquilegia-like leaves and bear large clusters of small flowers in shades of white, yellow, pink and purple. There are around 130 species, native to Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas, where they grow in moist and/or shady places such as in wet meadows and on riverbanks. Most species are happy growing in sun or partial shade, in rich, moist but well-drained soil.

Thalictrum ichangense 'Purple Marble' is a superb border plant, bearing tall flower stems on which fuzzy lilac flowers appear in early to midsummer. For best results grow in moist, rich soil in partial shade. Stake plants or grow them against a wall or fence, as they have a tendency to flop. Cut down the stems after flowering.