Contents
Description
Filipendula is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Rosaceae. This plant is native to the Northern Hemisphere, and it is commonly known as meadowsweet or queen of the meadow. Filipendula is a perennial plant that produces beautiful flowers in shades of white, pink, and yellow. The flowers are arranged in clusters and have a sweet fragrance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Filipendula |
Appearance
Filipendula plants have fern-like leaves that are deeply lobed and toothed. The leaves are usually dark green in color and have a silky texture. The flowers of Filipendula plants are delicate and have a fluffy appearance, with five petals and numerous stamens. The flowers bloom in mid to late summer and can be white, pink or yellow. Filipendula plants can grow up to 6 feet in height and spread up to 3 feet wide.
Care Guide
Filipendula plants are relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your Filipendula plant:
- Water: Filipendula plants prefer moist soil, so water them regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your Filipendula plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and mid-summer to encourage healthy growth and blooming.
- Soil: Filipendula plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They can tolerate a range of soil types, but they prefer slightly acidic soil.
- Sunlight: Filipendula plants prefer full to partial sun exposure. They can tolerate shade, but they may not flower as well.
- Hardiness Zones: Filipendula plants are hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Filipendula plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can still be affected by some common problems. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that can affect Filipendula:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and flowers of Filipendula plants, causing them to wilt and die.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can spin webs on the leaves and flowers of Filipendula plants and cause them to dry out and die.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating to form on the leaves and flowers of Filipendula plants, leading to stunted growth and reduced flowering.
- Root rot: This fungal disease can cause the roots of Filipendula plants to rot, leading to wilting and eventual death.
Habitat
Filipendula plants are native to the Northern Hemisphere and can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, bogs, and woodlands. They prefer moist soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clay. Filipendula plants are hardy in USDA zones 3-8 and can tolerate cold temperatures and frost.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Filipendula plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Filipendula plants can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and the soil is kept moist.
Q: Do Filipendula plants attract bees?
A: Yes, Filipendula plants are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Filipendula plant?
A: Fertilize your Filipendula plant in the spring and mid-summer with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Filipendula plants be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, Filipendula plants can be propagated by taking stem cuttings in the spring or early summer.
Related Plants
- Spirea
- Sorbaria
- Astilbe
- Geum
- Sanguisorba
References
- “Filipendula.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=283760.
- “Filipendula.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/17060/Filipendula/Details.
- “Meadowsweet (Filipendula).” Garden Design, www.gardendesign.com/plants/filipendula.html.
