The Queen of Wet Meadows

Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim.
Scientific name:
Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim.
Common name:
Meadowsweet
Family:
Rosaceae
Biological form:
Emicriptofita scaposa

Characteristics

Habit: Tall perennial herb 50–200 cm. Stem erect, robust and glabrous. Leaves pinnate with large segments and smaller leaflets. Flowers: Cream-white, strongly scented, arranged in large panicles. Fruits: Twisted follicles. Flowering: June–August.

Distribution and habitat

Chorological type: Eurosiberian. Distribution in Italy: Common in humid areas. Habitat: Wet meadows, riverbanks and riparian woods up to 1600 m.

Etymology

Generic name (Filipendula): From filum and pendulus. Specific name (ulmaria): Resembles elm leaves.

Uses and properties

Important medicinal plant; source of salicylic acid (aspirin precursor).

Curiosities

Sacred plant for Druids and precursor of aspirin.