Filipendula vestita

Filipendula vestita is a perennial in the rose family, Rosaceae. Its native range runs from Afghanistan to south-central China. Records also place it in Pakistan, India, and Nepal. It grows in temperate parts of this broad range. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. An older scientific name is Spiraea vestita.

This plant reaches about 2.6 feet [0.8 metres] tall. In the wild, it grows beside mountain drainage channels. It also lives among taller herbs, in alpine meadows, and along riverbanks. Some habitat records span 7,200–9,500 feet [2,200–2,900 metres] above sea level. Records from Yunnan reach 9,800–10,500 feet [3,000–3,200 metres]. These sites place it in damp mountain vegetation. Flowers appear from June to August. Its seeds also ripen within those months. Each flower has both male and female organs. Bees, flies, and beetles pollinate the flowers. The species can also set seed through self-fertilisation.

In gardens, it needs moist soil rich in humus. Partial shade suits it well. It can grow in full sun with steady soil moisture. Keep the soil moist throughout the growing season in sunny sites. Dry ground does not suit it, and it dislikes acid soil. Neutral to mildly alkaline soil is suitable. It accepts sandy soil, loam, and clay, including heavy clay. Wet or marshy ground can also support it. These needs make bog gardens and moist planted beds suitable settings. Plants For A Future lists USDA hardiness zones 5–9. The plant also draws wildlife into the garden.

Grow new plants from seed or by dividing established clumps. Sow seed in a cold frame in autumn or spring. Spring seed germinates best at 50–55°F [10–13°C]. Move seedlings into separate pots once large enough to handle. Plant strong young plants outside in summer. Keep smaller ones under cold-frame protection until late spring. Divide clumps in autumn or winter. Large divisions can go straight into their final sites. Grow smaller divisions in pots until they root well.

Plants For A Future lists no known edible uses. It also lists no known hazards, which does not establish safety. One report mentions medicinal properties but gives no details. The supplied evidence names no specific medicinal use. No other practical uses are recorded. The source does not flag this species as weedy.