Early Meadow Rue - Thalictrum dioicum

Features: Intricate lacy foliage (slightly reminiscent of Columbine) provides season-long interest and feeds a few Noctuid moth caterpillars. The delicate, subtly colored early spring flowers are wind-pollinated. Deer may lightly browse.

Light: Part-shade (no strong afternoon sun)--light shade (not the north side of the house)

Soil: Medium

Height: 2-3 feet

Blooms: April to May

See more information and photos at Illinois Wildflowers and USDA Plants Database

Photo Credit: Eugene van der Pijll, wikipedia.org; Illinois Wildflowers