Filipendula (or meadowsweet) is a genus of just 12 species and, surprisingly (because the flowers are so dissimilar), it is a close relation of the rose! It is native to the Northern Hemisphere, and particularly North America. Filipendula flowerheads are attractive, airy, fragrant clusters, containing hundreds of tiny little blooms in shades of white or pink, that attract bees and other pollinating insects. Many Filipendula species can be used as a foliage plants, with their large, maple-like leaves that are sometimes striped. Plants prefer moist conditions, on almost any type of soil, and a position in full sun or part shade.

Filipendula looks spectacular when grown in drifts, or among other plants at the back of a perennial border, as well as in meadows, or alongside streams and ponds. Try it with Iris, Hosta, Matteuccia, Gunnera, Euphorbia or large Hardy Geraniums. Incidentally, the genus name comes from the Latin word filum (thread) and pendulus (hanging), in reference to tubers that hang from the roots, underground. Common names include meadowsweet, queen of the prairie, courtship and matrimony and honey-sweet.