Nov 24, 2022
Thalictrum (meadow-rue)
Meadow-rue is a member of the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. Unlike other members of the buttercup family (such as, delphiniums and clematis) meadow-rues don’t have petals. Some meadow-rues are wind-pollinated, others are insect-pollinated and many species swing both ways, whichever method is more convenient.
The fluffy things that look like petals are actually long stamens (the male part of the plant), in the center is the pistil (the female part) and she’s handing out the nectar as per usual. But by dispensing with petals, pollinators get right down to business - no need for pretty clothes for this genus. Meadow-rues come in white, yellow, pink or pale purple and produce conspicuous dense inflorescences.
