Thalictrum dioicum

Found in part shade throughout the state. Often in thin soils, frequently neutral or calcareous, per NY Flora Atlas. Dioecious, with the male flowers slightly more conspicuous due to dangling pollen. There are several other Thalictrum species in NY and some are roughly the same size (~ 11-30 in). Note the length of the petiole on the leaf that is on the flower stalk before heading to a key (lowest branch of the inflorescence subtended by a long (vs short) -petioled leaf). Seeds of Thalictrum are collected when green AND they fall off easily.