Thalictrum sparsiflorum Turcz. ex Fisch. & C.A.Mey.

Nomenclature and Common Name

Thalictrum sparsiflorum Turcz. ex Fisch. & C.A.Mey. is a species of flowering plant in the buttercup family, commonly called fewflower meadow-rue.

Distribution and Habitat

It is native to northwestern North America and parts of northeastern Asia, where it grows in moist habitats including streambanks and forest understories.

Growth Form and Stem Characteristics

This is a perennial herb that produces erect stems that reach a maximum height of around one meter.

Leaf Structure

Its leaves have compound blades divided into a few or many segments, borne on long, slender petioles.

Leaf Texture

The blades are usually finely hairy and glandular.

Inflorescence Type

The inflorescence is a leafy panicle of flowers.

Flower Sexuality

Unlike some other Thalictrum species that are dioecious, this species has bisexual flowers.

Flower Morphology

Each flower has a calyx made up of five greenish sepals, and up to 20 light-colored dangling stamens tipped with large anthers.

Fruit Characteristics

After flowering, the plant develops compressed, beaked fruits.

Pollination Mechanism

Unlike some other Thalictrum species, this one is pollinated by insects rather than wind.