Dropwort Filipendula vulgaris 'Multiplex' (d)
ABOUT
Filipendula vulgaris 'Multiplex', commonly known as double meadowsweet, is a perennial plant notable for its unique and attractive appearance. The plant displays a clump-forming habit and is adorned with fluffy, deep green, fern-like foliage. These leaves are intricately dissected, giving them a lacey and fine-textured look that adds a soft elegance to the garden setting. What really sets the double meadowsweet apart are its flowers. The blooms are composed of dense clusters of tiny, creamy-white blossoms, which are double or multipetaled—hence the name 'Multiplex'. These flowers form pompom-like heads that are held aloft on branching stems, creating a frothy, cloud-like display that seems to float above the foliage. These flower heads have a delicate, almost ethereal presence in the garden when in full bloom. The double flowers of the double meadowsweet exude a sweet fragrance that can attract pollinators and contribute a sensory delight to the garden. Overall, the plant's charming and whimsical appearance, along with its aromatic blooms, makes it a favorite among gardeners looking to add a touch of romance and cottage-style allure to their landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae.
Synonyms
Dropwort, Meadowsweet, Fern-leaf Dropwort, Double Dropwort.
Common names
Spiraea filipendula 'Multiplex', Ulmaria filipendula 'Multiplex'.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Meadowsweet is not typically considered toxic to humans. In fact, historical uses include medicinal properties, such as relieving pain and fever. However, it is always advisable to consume plants with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare provider, as individual reactions can vary, and some people might be allergic to it.
To pets
For pets, Meadowsweet is not listed as a commonly toxic plant. However, pets can have unexpected reactions to plant materials. If a pet consumes some part of the plant and shows signs of distress, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual behavior, it is important to contact a veterinarian promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Filipendula vulgaris 'Multiplex', commonly known as Double Meadow Sweet, has unique, deeply cut, fern-like foliage and showy clusters of creamy white flowers, which can add a visually appealing texture and color to gardens.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, the plant is relatively drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering and care, making it ideal for gardeners looking for low-maintenance plants.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of the Double Meadow Sweet are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which are essential for the pollination of many other plants.
- Drought Tolerance: The plant is able to withstand periods of low water availability, making it a good choice for dry or drought-prone gardens.
- Soil Stabilization: Its root system helps to stabilize soil, preventing soil erosion in sloped garden areas or where erosion control is needed.
- Pest Resistant: Double Meadow Sweet is generally resistant to pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides and making it a safe choice for eco-friendly gardening.
- Long Blooming Period: This perennial has a robust blooming period from late spring to summer, providing an extended display of flowers during the growing season.
- Garden Design: Suitable for cottage gardens, informal borders, and wildflower meadows, it can be used to create a variety of garden styles and aesthetics.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Dropwort contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation.
- Diuretic: It has been traditionally used to promote the production of urine.
- Astringent: The astringent properties of dropwort are purported to help tighten tissues and halt discharges.
- Antirheumatic: Some sources suggest that dropwort may be beneficial for those with rheumatic conditions.
- Fever reducer: It has been historically used to help reduce fevers.
- Digestive aid: Dropwort may have been used traditionally to aid digestion.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Filipendula vulgaris 'Multiplex', commonly known as Dropwort, can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, imparting subtle hues to textiles when used in traditional dyeing processes.
- The plant's decorative flowers make it suitable for inclusion in floral arrangements, adding a unique texture and form to bouquets.
- Traditionally, Dropwort has been used in creating infused vinegars, offering a gentle flavor for culinary uses.
- Dropwort's fibrous stems can be used in papermaking, adding strength and a distinct texture to handmade papers.
- The plant's roots, when dried and crushed, have been historically used as a natural potpourri due to their aroma.
- In some cultures, Dropwort may be used to stuff traditional mattresses or pillows, providing not only stuffing but also reputed to offer a pleasant smell.
- Dropwort's dense growth habit can be utilized in garden design to prevent soil erosion on slopes or banks.
- The dried stems and flowers can serve as a natural filler material for crafting, such as in the making of sustainable dolls or decorative objects.
- Used in companion planting, Dropwort can potentially benefit neighboring plants by attracting beneficial insects with its flowers.
- The plant can play a role in biodynamic agriculture as a part of herbal preparations intended to enhance soil health and plant growth.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Dropwort is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Dropwort is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Femininity: The delicate appearance of the Dropwort’s blossoms often symbolizes feminine beauty and grace.
- Elegance: With its intricate and layered petals, the Dropwort manifests elegance and sophistication.
- Purity: The white or soft pink flowers are frequently associated with purity and innocence.
- Positive Energy: Dropwort is believed to emit positive vibrations, making it a symbol of good energy.
- Resilience: As a hardy perennial, it reflects the ability to withstand challenging conditions and thus symbolizes resilience.
WaterThe Double Meadowsweet should be watered regularly to maintain evenly moist soil, especially during prolonged dry spells. It's essential to avoid both overwatering and allowing the soil to dry out completely. A general rule is to provide about 1 inch of water per week, which is roughly 0.623 gallons for a typical garden area of 10 square feet. During the heat of summer, you may need to water twice a week, depending on rainfall and soil drainage.
LightThe Double Meadowsweet thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers a spot that receives at least four hours of direct sunlight daily but can also tolerate dappled shade. Avoid placing it in deep shade, as this can reduce its vigor and flowering capabilities. The ideal location would offer morning sunlight with some afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates.
TemperatureDouble Meadowsweet plants are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, however, they perform best in temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. They can survive minimum temperatures down to about -30°F and are generally winter hardy to USDA zone 3. In extreme heat, the plants may require extra watering to help maintain cool roots and prevent stress.
PruningPrune Double Meadowsweet in the late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged stems and encourage new growth. Pruning can also be done after flowering to keep the plant looking tidy and to encourage bushier growth. It is not necessary to prune regularly; once a year should suffice. The best time for heavy pruning is when the plant is dormant, to avoid stressing it during active growth periods.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Dropwort 'Multiplex' thrives best in a well-drained yet moist soil mix with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. A mix containing equal parts loam, peat, and some sand for improved drainage makes an ideal soil composition for this cultivar. Regular incorporation of organic matter can help maintain moisture levels and soil fertility.
RepottingDropwort 'Multiplex' does not need frequent repotting and can do well if repotted every 2-3 years. It's important to repot in spring before new growth starts and to choose a slightly larger pot to accommodate root growth.
Humidity & MistingDropwort 'Multiplex' prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable and can tolerate the humidity levels typically found in temperate outdoor environments. Additional humidity measures are not usually required for this hardy perennial.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright indirect light and keep in a cool room.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade; protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleDropwort 'Multiplex' begins its life as a seed, which germinates in late spring when soil temperatures are warm enough. The seedling emerges and establishes a rosette of fern-like leaves close to the ground. Over time, the plant develops a tough root system and in subsequent years, more leafy growth occurs. As it enters the flowering stage, typically in early to midsummer, it sends up tall flowering stems that display dense clusters of creamy white, double flowers. After pollination, typically by insects, it sets seed which matures by late summer or early fall, and these seeds disperse to give rise to new plants. During winter, the above-ground parts of Dropwort 'Multiplex' die back, but the plant survives as a perennial due to its root system and re-emerges the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
The most popular method of propagation for the plant Filipendula vulgaris 'Multiplex', commonly known as the fern-leaf dropwort, is by division. This process is best carried out in the spring or early autumn. To propagate by division, carefully lift an established clump from the ground. Using a sharp spade or knife, divide the clump into smaller sections, ensuring each section has a good amount of roots and shoots. Replant the divisions immediately at the same depth they were growing at, spacing them about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 centimeters) apart to allow for ample growth. Water the new divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This method is quite efficient and helps to maintain the true characteristics of the 'Multiplex' variety.
