Queen Of The Prairie, Meadowsweet

Filipendula rubra

Physical Characteristics

Filipendula rubra is a PERENNIAL growing to 2.5 m (8ft) by 1.3 m (4ft 3in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, beetles. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist or wet soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Pennsylvania to Georgia, west to Michigan and Iowa.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Meadow; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Antiinflammatory Astringent Cardiac Dysentery The root is rich in tannin, it is used as an astringent in the treatment of diarrhoea, dysentery, bleeding etc[222]. It has also been used in the treatment of various heart complaints[257]. The plant probably contains salicylic acid, the chemical forerunner of aspirin[222]. This is anti-inflammatory and analgesic[222].

Known Hazards

None known