Filipendula vulgaris, commonly known as dropwort or fern-leaf dropwort, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the family Rosaceae, closely related to meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria). Filipendula vulgaris, commonly called dropwort, is an upright, clump-forming perennial that typically grows to 2-3' tall. It is native to dry limestone grasslands in Europe and Asia.

Understanding the Context

Dropwort (Filipendula vulgaris) is an underappreciated perennial herb that holds a wealth of benefits for gardeners and the environment alike. Often found i ... Filipendula vulgaris, Dropwort: identification, pictures, distribution, habitat, blooming times, folklore, herbal uses, etymology and similar species Dropwort, scientifically known as Filipendula vulgaris, belongs to the Rosaceae family. This unique plant features delicate fern-like leaves and clusters of small, white flowers that bloom in summer.

Key Insights

Often referred to as Dropwort, Filipendula vulgaris is the elegant, dry-land cousin of the more famous Meadowsweet. While it shares the same frothy, cloud-like blossoms, this plant is a survivor of the sun-drenched chalk grasslands of Europe and Siberia. Filipendula vulgaris has been cultivated as an ornamental in North America and probably escapes. The native range stretches from Atlantic Europe to southwestern Siberia (Altai Mountains), and from southern Scandinavia to northern Africa. Filipendula vulgaris is commonly known as dropwort.

Final Thoughts

It has finely-pinnate foliage somewhat like those of yarrow, with most leaves being basal. It is relatively small among the Filipendula, reaching 60-90 cm (2-3 feet). The cultivar ‘Multiplex’ is a sterile, double-flowered selection.