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Thalictrum 'Black Stockings'

meadow rue

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A popular meadow rue, this has lavender-purple flowers held high on striking, jet-black stems. Each small flower is made up of tiny strands, like downy thistles, giving the plant a hazy, fluffy effect. The foliage is pretty, too, scalloped and lacy looking.

This willowy, tall perennial makes a striking feature towards the back of a partially shady border, or as a contrast to larger-leaved plants. Thalictrum 'Black Stockings' looks terrific when placed in a naturalised or cottage garden scheme, and it associates well with grasses.

How to care for Thalictrum Black Stockings:

Thalictrum thrives in moist, well-drained soil in partial shade but can tolerate full sun if kept well-watered. Plant it in a sheltered spot to protect the tall, delicate stems from strong winds and stake using plant supports made from natural materials (e.g. hazel or birch) before the flowers appear.

Mulch annually with compost or well-rotted organic matter to retain moisture and enrich the soil. In autumn, cut back the flower stems to ground level to to tidy up and encourage healthy growth the following year. Regular deadheading during the season can also help prolong flowering.

Divide congested plants in early spring as new growth appears, though divisions may take time to settle.
Flowering period:
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
Eventual height:
2m
Eventual spread:
0.75m
Position:

Light shade

Rate of growth:

Slow growing

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil

Hardiness:

Fully hardy

  • InformationThis perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

Product options

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RH30000346
9cm pot
£12.99
In stock
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
Product options image
RH30005071
3 × 9cm pots
£24.95 £8.32 each
In stock
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
1
Delivery options (pick your preferred option at checkout)
Standard Delivery£5.99
Named Day Delivery£10.99

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