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Thalictrum 'Black Stockings'
Black Stockings meadow rue
Hybrid of garden origin (Thalictrum hybrid — Asian species parentage)Learn more
Overview
Thalictrum 'Black Stockings' is a meadow rue, growing 48–72 inches (120–180 cm) tall and 24–36 inches (60–90 cm) wide. Large airy panicles of lavender-pink fluffy flowers in midsummer — the flowers have no petals; the color comes entirely from the masses of pendant stamens with colored filaments and anthers. The cultivar name references the dark purple-black stems ('black stockings'), which contrast with the blue-green foliage and the lavender-pink flower clouds. Finely divided compound blue-green foliage resembling maidenhair fern (Adiantum). In the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae). The tall narrow profile (48–72 inches / 120–180 cm tall but only 24–36 inches / 60–90 cm wide) allows the airy flower panicles to float above lower-growing border companions — the transparent structure does not block the view of plants behind it. May require staking in exposed or windy sites — the tall stems lean under the weight of the flower panicles. A hybrid of Asian Thalictrum species (likely involving T. rochebrunianum and/or T. delavayi). All parts contain isoquinoline alkaloids — toxic to humans and animals. Consistent moisture during the growing season. Part sun — afternoon shade in hot climates prevents leaf scorch. Deer-resistant (toxic). Non-alkaline soil. Zones 4–9. Growth rate is moderate.
Native Range
Hybrid of garden origin — parentage involves Asian Thalictrum species (likely T. rochebrunianum and/or T. delavayi).Suggested Uses
Grown in borders in zones 4–9. The tall transparent profile allows planting behind lower companions — the airy flower panicles float above without blocking views. Dark stems contrast with blue-green foliage. All parts toxic. Deer-resistant.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height4' - 6'
Width/Spread2' - 3'
Reaches mature size in approximately 3 years
Bloom Information
Midsummer (July–August), lasting 3–4 weeks. Lavender-pink fluffy flower panicles (petalless — stamen masses). The airy transparent panicles float above lower border companions.Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Lavender-pink, fluffy (petalless — the color is from the stamens), in large airy paniclesFoliage Description
Blue-green, finely divided (maidenhair-fern-like), compoundGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Part sun to full sun (afternoon shade in hot climates). Consistent moisture. May need staking in exposed sites. The dark purple-black stems contrast with blue-green foliage. All parts toxic (isoquinoline alkaloids). Deer-resistant. Zones 4–9.Pruning
Cut all stems to the ground in late autumn or early spring. Stake tall stems in exposed sites before the flower panicles develop. No other pruning needed.Pruning Schedule
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fallearly spring