Mostly grown for the colourful large flowers, Filipendula are a moisture loving plant well worth a place in the garden. Excellent near a pond or in any other moist soil, in fact they are so brilliant when in flower it is worth creating a most garden area just to grow them.
The large sprays of white and pink to red flowers depending on the species are the main attraction.
Our favourite is Filipendula palmata (pictured right), tall growing to around 1m, large fluffy ping flowers in spring and it does have very attractive foliage as well, we think the best of all.
It does stand out when grown against the deep green foliage of plants such as Camellias.
How To Grow Filipendula palmata and other species
A rhizomatous perennial these plants will spread to form a good clump. However only in moist soils. Plants can be grown from seed however they are slow to germinate, so be a little patient.
- Filipendula is a perennial growing to about 1m.
- Best grown in part shade in a well mulched, moist but well drained soil.
- It can be beneficial to prepare the soil well before planting.
- Dig in lots of well rotted compost and some coir peat, this will help with moisture retention.
- Most species can be cut back after flowering in summer to encourage a second flush of flowers.
- In warmer climate zones Filipendula are best grown in part shade, or at least with protection from hot afternoon sun.
- They do well on the side of buildings or where given protection by other plants.
Garden Uses
Attractive foliage and with flowers coming as feathery plumes Filipendula are excellent as cut flowers and floral displays.
Filipendula Species
- Filipendula ulmariais often referred to as ‘Meadowsweet’.
- Filipendula rubra is Queen-of-the-prairie with pink flowers.
- Filipendula umaria ‘Aurea’ has golden foliage and white flowers.
With attractive foliage and colorful flowers most species are excellent plants for a moist part shaded position in the garden. They are frost tolerant, summer flowering and add a little height to the garden border or woodland planting.
For sale from the following nurseries
Large variety of Epimediums, Woodland plants and Herbaceous perennials
Mail order or nursery. We do not send to Tasmania or WA
www.cloverhillrareplants.com
52 Rodd St Canowindra NSW 2804
An online nursery specialising in drought and frost tolerant perennials and fragrant, edible and herbs.
www.perennialle.com.au
'Umbango' 750 Humula Rd, Humula NSW 2652
Phone 0408692773 Great Range of Perennial plants available for sale by mail order.
www.nutshellnursery.com.au