Filipendula
Filipendula spp.
Filipendula, commonly known as meadowsweet, produces frothy plumes of tiny fragrant flowers. These elegant perennials symbolize grace, love, and protection, with a rich history in herbal medicine and folklore.
Rosaceae (Rose family)
Early to midsummer (June-August)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: mallows and hedychiums also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Meadowsweet has deep roots in Celtic and European folklore. It was one of the three most sacred herbs to the Druids (along with watermint and vervain). In medieval times, it was strewn on floors to freshen rooms with its sweet scent. The flower symbolizes hidden worth and uselessness in the Victorian language of flowers, yet paradoxically represents love and protection in folklore. Queen Elizabeth I favored meadowsweet for its fragrance. Its connection to aspirin-like compounds gives it historical importance in herbal medicine.Botanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates more shade in hotter climates
Water
High; requires consistently moist to wet soil, intolerant of drought
Soil
Moist to wet, Rich, Humus-rich, Clay loam, Slightly acidic to neutral
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in consistently moist to wet soil; intolerant of drought
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in spring or fall
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage tidier appearance
May require staking in exposed sites or rich soils
Tolerates heavy clay soils if moisture is adequate
Fragrant flowers attract pollinators
Cut back foliage after flowering if it becomes tatty
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Moisture-loving perennial borders
- Pond and stream margins
- Bog gardens and rain gardens
- Cottage garden plantings
- Naturalized meadow areas
- Back-of-border specimens
Traditional Uses
- Filipendula ulmaria (meadowsweet) traditionally used for pain relief
- Contains salicylates, precursors to aspirin
- Used historically for headaches, fever, and inflammation
- Employed in herbal teas for digestive support
- Anti-inflammatory properties recognized in traditional medicine
- Should not be used by those allergic to aspirin
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Filipendula
Is filipendula the same as meadowsweet?
Yes, Filipendula species are commonly called meadowsweet. Filipendula ulmaria is the classic European meadowsweet, while Filipendula rubra is known as Queen of the Prairie in North America.
Does filipendula like wet soil?
Yes, filipendula thrives in consistently moist to wet soil and is ideal for bog gardens, pond margins, and rain gardens. It does not tolerate drought conditions.
What does filipendula symbolize?
Filipendula symbolizes grace, protection, and hidden worth. In folklore, meadowsweet represents love and was considered sacred by the Druids for its protective properties.
Is meadowsweet related to aspirin?
Yes, meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) contains salicylates, which are natural compounds chemically related to aspirin. It was historically used for pain relief before synthetic aspirin was developed.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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