By Suzanne Wodek
Commonly called Tall Meadow Rue, Thalictrum pubescens is a native perennial wildflower in the Ranunculaceae (Buttercup) family. It may be found growing naturally along stream banks and roadsides, on the edges of ponds and in forests, thickets, meadows and prairies.
Meadow rue grows three to seven feet tall and prefers a moist to slightly dry condition in partial to full sun. The height of a plant can vary considerably depending on the fertility of the soil and moisture conditions. This species appears to tolerate full sun and drought conditions better than most.
Tall Meadow Rue. Anne Holmes, artist
It is a dioecious plant, meaning male and female flowers are on separate plants. The underside of the leaf has glandular hairs which gives it a waxy appearance that will glisten when exposed to sunlight. The stem and leaves die back in the heat of late summer, but will grow new basal leaves in the fall.
Because the flowers are wind-pollinated, few insects visit the flowers. Occasionally, bees gather pollen from the anthers of the male flowers and various beetles eat the pollen. Because the foliage has a foul scent when crushed, it is not a preferred food source for mammalian herbivores.
Some Native American tribes used an infusion of the plant to treat nosebleeds and an infusion of the roots as a gallbladder medicine. Others reportedly used the leaves to flavor salmon.
Upcoming Events at the Botanical Gardens
• Naturalist Walk with Jay Kranyik, garden manager and chairman of the Horticulture Committee on Sunday, August 15, 9–11:30 a.m.
On this slow ramble we will examine and discuss many facets of Southern Appalachian ecology and botany. We will meet champion trees, demystify scientific names by learning about fascinating things they reveal, contemplate plant chemistry, gossip about great taxonomists and botanists, and talk in length about the profound effects geology and weather have on the region. Bring rain gear/umbrella if needed as well as a magnifier and binoculars if you have them.
• Fall Plant & Rummage Sale, Saturday, September 11, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Check our website for more details.
• Fall Bird Walk, Sunday, September 19, 8:30–10 a.m.
Join Dr. Andrew Laughlin, longtime birder and assistant professor in Environmental Studies at UNCA, for an easy, early-morning bird walk in the Gardens. As we look for, listen to and enjoy the birds, we’ll learn to recognize their songs and calls. Field guides are helpful but not required. Bring binoculars if you have them. Dress for rain or shine.
Participants must pre-register for all education programs online at AshevilleBotanicalGardens.org. Programs are $15 for members and $20 for non-members. Check our website for future adult education programs.
The Botanical Gardens, located at 151 W.T. Weaver Boulevard is a nonprofit organization housing a collection of plants native to the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated and memberships are encouraged. The Gardens are open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The Visitor Center and Gift Shop are now open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. Learn more at AshevilleBotanicalGardens.org.
