Early Meadow Rue

Did you know

• It is dioecious — male and female flowers grow on separate plants, hence the species name 'dioicum'.
• Male flowers dangle dozens of long, feathery stamens that sway in the slightest breeze, releasing pollen on the wind.
• It is wind-pollinated rather than insect-pollinated, an unusual strategy for a forest understory plant.
• The lacy compound leaves resemble those of meadow rue's relative columbine — both Ranunculaceae.
• It blooms before the trees leaf out, taking advantage of the last unshaded weeks of early spring.

Color meanings

Uses

• woodland gardens
• shade borders
• native plantings