Western meadow-rue (Thalictrum occidentale, Proc. Amer. Acad. Arts 7: 372 (1868))

Family: Ranunculaceae

Author: A.Gray

Bibliography: Proc. Amer. Acad. Arts 7: 372 (1868)

Year: 1868

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Thalictrum

Vegetable: False

Observations: S. Alaska to NW. & WC. U.S.A.

Description

Western meadow-rue, known scientifically as Thalictrum occidentale, is a charming perennial herb that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. First described by esteemed botanist Asa Gray in “Proceedings of the American Academy of Arts” in 1868, this plant has garnered attention for its delicate appearance and impressive adaptability.

This species is indigenous to a wide-ranging area, extending from southern Alaska down through the northwestern and western-central regions of the United States. It flourishes in diverse habitats, often favoring moist, shaded woodlands and the edges of streams where it can receive ample water and partial sunlight.

Western meadow-rue typically grows to heights of 1 to 3 feet, displaying an elegant structure with thin, wiry stems. Its foliage is noted for its resemblance to maidenhair fern, featuring finely divided, bluish-green leaves that add a soft texture to its surroundings. From late spring to early summer, Thalictrum occidentale produces small, but striking, clusters of flowers. These flowers are usually greenish-white or purple and lack petals, instead showcasing fluffy stamens that give them a delicate, airy appearance.

An important aspect of Western meadow-rue is its ecological role. The plant serves as an essential nectar source for various pollinators, including bees and butterflies. This not only aids in the reproduction of the meadow-rue itself but also supports the broader ecosystem by sustaining these pollinator populations.

Cultivation of Thalictrum occidentale in garden settings is relatively straightforward. Gardeners appreciate it for its low maintenance and its ability to add a touch of wild beauty to shaded garden areas or naturalized settings. It prefers well-drained, humus-rich soil and benefits from regular watering, especially during dry spells.

In conclusion, Western meadow-rue is a magnificent example of botanical elegance and ecological importance. Its historical significance dating back to Asa Gray’s description in the 19th century underscores its enduring appeal and relevance. Whether in its natural habitats or as a part of a cultivated garden, Thalictrum occidentale continues to captivate with its graceful form and vital role in the environment.

Common Names

Eng: western meadow-rue
Fra: pigamon de l’ouest, pigamon occidental
En: Western meadow-rue
Fr: Pigamon de l’Ouest, Pigamon occidental

Synonyms

• Thalictrum occidentale var. palousense (H.St.John)
• Thalictrum rainierense (H.St.John)
• Thalictrum occidentale var. megacarpum (H.St.John)
• Thalictrum omissum (Greene)
• Thalictrum occidentale var. typicum (B.Boivin)
• Thalictrum occidentale var. breitungii ((B.Boivin) Brayshaw)
• Thalictrum megacarpum (Torr. ex Rydb.)
• Thalictrum occidentale var. macounii (B.Boivin)
• Thalictrum breitungii (B.Boivin)
• Thalictrum propinquum (Greene)

Distribution

• Alaska (native)
• Alberta (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Montana (native)
• Nevada (native)
• North Dakota (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Saskatchewan (native)
• Utah (native)
• Washington (native)
• Wyoming (native)
• Yukon (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Jun 2, 2021 by Jelle Faber (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 16, 2020 by justin klamut (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 14, 2021 by overzealousbystrom (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 6, 2021 by Mackenzie Laurin (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 6, 2021 by Mackenzie Laurin (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Sep 12, 2022 by Michael Finch (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 12, 2022 by Michael Finch (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Jun 2, 2021 by Jelle Faber (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 2, 2021 by Jelle Faber (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 12, 2012 by EOL − John Brew (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 10, 2014 by EOL − Erin Faulkner (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 13, 2014 by EOL − John Brew (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Dec 19, 2003 by EOL − Jennifer Wheeler (public)

Taken Jun 13, 2014 by EOL − John Brew (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 9, 2014 by EOL − Wendy Feltham (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 17, 2015 by EOL − Wendy Feltham (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 17, 2015 by EOL − Wendy Feltham (cc-by-nc)

Bark

Taken Dec 19, 2003 by EOL − Jennifer Wheeler (public)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3033154)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:714684-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Thalictrum occidentale A. Gray)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth