Shear off flower buds if bloom is not
desired on hedge plants. An annual
shearing of winter-damaged branch
tips generally is needed in the spring,
at least in the Midwest and colder
areas, as germander invariably is
injured over the winter. Plants can also
be sheared by about a third and shaped
after flowering to promote fuller
growth. Any heavy pruning should be
done by late August to allow the plants
to harden for the winter.
other maintenance Requires
well-draining soil. Usually suffers
winter burn in areas of high winds.
Protect plants with evergreen boughs.
Not really a reliable hedge plant in the
Midwest, as winter damage is more the
norm. Divide in the spring, if needed.Thalictrum
aquilegiifolium
meadow rue
ranunculaceaeFuffy pink flower heads; columbinelike
leaves
2–3 ft. high; 2–3 ft. wide
Part shade
Blooms May–June
Zones 5–8
pruning Plants often benefit from
cutting down to the ground after
flowering, when fresh new growth is
emerging and old growth is declining,
particularly in dry locations. In rich,
moist soil the foliage remains attrac-
tive all season long, and interesting
seedheads develop that further add to
the display. Meadow rue may seed
itself if not deadheaded. If plants are
not cut down after flowering, do so for
the winter.
other maintenance Fairly low
maintenance. Prefers rich, moist soils.
No staking required. Division gener-
ally not needed for many years, but
when it is, it should be performed in
the early spring or early autumn for
establishment before winter. Pest free
if given sufficient moisture.
related plantS There are a
number of outstanding related species.
Most of these are taller (3–5 ft.) and
flower in the summer rather than the
spring. They may benefit from
pinching or cutting back when halfTeucrium chamaedrys
Thalictrum aquilegiifolium