Also known as Meadowsweet · 242 saves
Filipendula
Filipendula, the genus most gardeners know as meadowsweet. We track 7 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 7 most-saved Filipendula varieties
2 species of Filipendula
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Filipendula in Sow
Save the Filipendula you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Filipendula
Whats common across all Filipendula varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 7 most-grown of them.
The Filipendula year
- DivideMarch and September86% of varieties
Divide large, crowded clumps every 3-5 years to maintain vigor
- PruneSeptember and October57% of varieties
Cut stems back to the ground in fall after foliage dies back.
- Check for PestsJune–August57% of varieties
Monitor for powdery mildew in humid weather; ensure good air circulation.
- Spring CleanupFebruary and March43% of varieties
Cut back old stems and dead foliage to the ground before new growth emerges
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to retain moisture
- Fertilize in spring
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Avoid
- Avoid dry or overly sunny spots ❌
- Do not let soil dry out
- Avoid heavy, compacted soils
- Avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot ❌
What goes wrong with Filipendula
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Curling leaves and sticky residue | Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap |
| Slugs | Holes in leaves and slime trails | Handpick slugs at night or set slug traps |
| Root rot | Wilting and discolored roots | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Powdery mildew | White powder on leaves | Use organic fungicide and ensure good air circulation |
| Powdery Mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Apply organic fungicide and improve air circulation |
| Root Rot | Wilting and blackened roots | Ensure well-drained soil and reduce watering |
Making more Filipendula
Division
- Divide mature clumps in early spring or fall
- Use sharp knife to separate roots into sections
- Plant divisions at same depth and water thoroughly
Seed
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring
- Keep soil consistently moist for germination, approximately 2-3 weeks
Filipendula questions
How many types of Filipendula are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 7 distinct Filipendula varieties. The most popular — ranked by 242 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Filipendula grow in?
Across its varieties, Filipendula covers USDA Zones 4–9. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Filipendula bloom?
Most Filipendula varieties bloom in mid-summer, late summer, early to mid-summer. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Filipendula should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.