Meadowsweet (Filipendula Ulmaria)

Meadowsweet

Features and Characteristics

Filipendula ulmaria, commonly called meadowsweet or queen-of-the-meadow, is a large, clump-forming, upright perennial that typically grows 3-4′ (less frequently to 6′) tall and features branched, terminal, astilbe-like panicles (4-6″) of fragrant, creamy white flowers in early to mid summer. Compound, pinnate, dark green leaves (7-9 leaflets each) are hairy and whitish beneath. Although native to Europe and Asia, this species has escaped gardens and naturalized in parts of eastern North America.

Genus name comes from the Latin words filum meaning a thread and pendulus meaning hanging for the root tubers in some species that hang together with threads.

Specific epithet means resembling Ulmus the genus name of elms.

Care and Maintenance

Easily grown in average, medium to wet, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Prefers constantly moist, alkaline soils. Intolerant of drought. Appreciates part shade in hot climates. Propagate by seed or by dividing clumps in early spring. Freely self-seeds. With sufficient moisture, foliage may remain attractive throughout the growing season. If foliage depreciates in summer, cut back hard to promote new growth.

Meadowsweet (Filipendula Ulmaria) Requirements

Hardiness zone	3 - 9
Sun light	Full Sun To Part Shade
Water	Medium To Wet
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Some susceptibility to mildew.

Uses

Borders (rear), naturalized areas, wet meadows or moist areas along streams or ponds.

Meadowsweet (Filipendula Ulmaria) Details

Common name	Meadowsweet
Botanical name	Filipendula Ulmaria
Plant type	Herbaceous Perennial
Family	Rosaceae
Hardiness zone	3 - 9
Water	Medium To Wet
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	White/Yellowish-White
Flowering period	June - August
Height	3 - 6 Ft.
Width	1 - 3 Ft.