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Description
Thalictrum Simplex, also known as the Purple Meadow-Rue, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to North America and is found in moist meadows, stream banks, and forests.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Thalictrum |
Appearance
Thalictrum Simplex can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has delicate-looking, fern-like foliage that is green and finely divided. The plant blooms in late spring to early summer and produces clusters of small, purple flowers that are held high above the foliage. The flowers have yellow stamens and are very attractive to bees and butterflies. The plant also produces seed pods that are held on long, slender stems.
Care Guide
Thalictrum Simplex is an easy plant to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water regularly during the growing season.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and again in mid-summer.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant in partial shade to full sun. It prefers a well-lit but not too hot location.
- Hardiness Zones: Thalictrum Simplex can grow in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Thalictrum Simplex is generally not bothered by pests or diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by powdery mildew, which is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid watering the foliage. Insect pests such as aphids and spider mites can also be a problem, but can be controlled by spraying the plant with an insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Thalictrum Simplex is native to North America and is found in moist meadows, stream banks, and forests. It prefers damp, well-drained soil and partial to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Thalictrum Simplex a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Thalictrum Simplex is an easy plant to care for and requires minimal maintenance, making it a good choice for beginners.
Q: Does Thalictrum Simplex attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the small, purple flowers produced by Thalictrum Simplex are very attractive to bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Thalictrum Simplex grow in full sun?
A: Yes, Thalictrum Simplex can grow in full sun, but it prefers partial shade to full shade.
Q: How often should I water Thalictrum Simplex?
A: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water regularly during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Thalictrum Aquilegiifolium
- Thalictrum Delavayi
- Thalictrum Dioicum
- Thalictrum Lucidum
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Thalictrum simplex. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279069
- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Thalictrum simplex. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/thalictrum-simplex/
- University of Wisconsin-Madison. (n.d.). Thalictrum simplex. Retrieved from https://wimastergardener.org/article/purple-meadow-rue-thalictrum-simplex/
