Species

Thalictrum delavayiChinese Meadow-Rue

1 other cultivar

‘decorum’Delavay's Meadow Rue

perennial

Hewitt's Double Meadow Rue

Thalictrum delavayi 'Hewitt's Double'

The Story

Plant Bio

Thalictrum delavayi 'Hewitt's Double' is a deciduous perennial distinguished by its airy clusters of double, lavender-pink flowers and finely divided, fern-like foliage that adds a delicate texture to garden borders.

This cultivar is notable for its lush, double-flowered blooms that provide a striking, romantic appearance and extend the flowering period, making it a standout in shaded and woodland garden settings.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides elegant, airy texture with purple blooms, enhancing shaded garden areas.

Prefers moist, well-drained soil, reducing watering needs once established.

Attracts beneficial insects and supports local biodiversity.

SpeciesThalictrum delavayiChinese Meadow-Rue

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

48 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Moist, well-drained

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

China

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Summer – Late fall

In flower about 5 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or division into well-prepared soil in early spring.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring for healthy growth.
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring or fall.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade with moist, well-drained loam for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Prune after flowering to promote healthy growth

Don't

Avoid dry, sandy soils that drain too quickly ❌
Don’t expose to full sun in hot climates
Over-fertilize which can lead to leggy growth

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Harvest
Mulch
Spring Cleanup
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderSoftening garden edgesUnderstory planting in shade gardens

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbes Heucheras Japanese Anemones

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hewitt's Double Meadow Rue questions

What zones can Hewitt's Double Meadow Rue grow in?

Hewitt's Double Meadow Rue is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Hewitt's Double Meadow Rue deer resistant?

Yes — Hewitt's Double Meadow Rue is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Hewitt's Double Meadow Rue bloom?

Hewitt's Double Meadow Rue typically blooms in summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Hewitt's Double Meadow Rue need full sun?

Hewitt's Double Meadow Rue does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.