Early Meadow-Rue

Light Needs

Partial Shade to Full Sun

(At Least 3 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

1-2 Feet

Mature Spread

1-2 Feet

Growing Zones

4 to 8

If deer are a problem in your garden, then the deer-resistant Early Meadow-Rue may just be your saving grace. Botanically named Thalictrum dioicum, this perennial displays subtle and graceful flowers on top of its delicate, green foliage in late spring. As a compact plant with a clump-forming habit, it is ideally suited to growing in a border or as part of a cottage garden scheme. Happiest in partial or dappled shade, this plant can be a good choice for a tricky shaded spot.

Native to North America, this plant is known to attract butterflies and thankfully not deer. A low-maintenance plant, it is often used for wildflower meadows and woodland areas where it looks stunning when planted in drifts. Early Meadow-Rue is tolerant of most soils just as long as it is not planted in full sun. A great perennial plant that provides elegant foliage and texture to the garden and can self-seed in the right conditions. 

Early Meadow-Rue Care

Early Meadow-Rue likes to be grown in a fertile soil that is moist and well drained. It can tolerate full sun, but tends to thrive in partial shade. This plant needs to be watered often until it has established and during any dry spells that follow. Fertilizing Early Meadow-Rue is generally not required unless it is grown on poor soil. However, an annual mulch of organic matter or leaf mold in spring will give it a boost and help reduce any moisture loss. 

Early Meadow-Rue generally requires little pruning, as the foliage dies back in fall to reappear again in spring. However, any untidy or disheveled-looking foliage can be removed at the base with a pair of sanitized and sharp scissors. 

Early Meadow-Rue Spacing

Depending on the growing conditions, Early Meadow-Rue grows to 12-24 inches high and wide. If growing this perennial en masse, plants can be spaced at a distance of around 18 inches apart.