Wood Anemone
anemone nemorosa
Also known as: ["Windflower","Thousand Flowers"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with delicate white flowers, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Anemone |
| Botanical Name: | Anemone nemorosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden, shaded border, or under deciduous trees
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to moist-draining.
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering; remove yellowing foliage in late summer.
- Pruning Intensity: Light
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily, especially in spring.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light if moving from deep shade; protect from intense midday sun; ideal placement is under deciduous trees for dappled light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sunlight; provide shade during peak hours; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; maintain soil moisture; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C); thrives in spring temperatures and goes dormant in summer heat.
Protect from extreme heat; maintain cool conditions in spring; avoid frost exposure in winter.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth, none in dormancy
Fertilize sparingly; apply in early spring only; avoid high-nitrogen formulas.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or seed propagation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes by cutting with a sharp knife.
- Replant immediately at the same depth.
- Sow seeds shallowly and keep moist.
Best Time: Divide rhizomes immediately after flowering in late spring; sow seeds in late summer or early fall.
Environment
Cool, shaded environment with high humidity for seeds; normal garden conditions for divided rhizomes.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with added perlite or sand for division; sterile seed starting mix for seeds.
Hormone
Not necessary for division; optional for seeds to encourage germination.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; seeds: germination in 1–3 months, flowering in 2–3 years.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, garden trowel, seed trays, sterile soil mix.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor; cold stratify seeds for better germination; keep seedlings shaded.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadheading spent flowers; cutting back yellowing or damaged foliage.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing spent flowers and dead foliage to encourage reblooming and prevent disease.
Tools
Hand pruners, scissors.
Checklist
Remove spent flowers; cut back dead foliage; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late spring, immediately after flowering.
Pot Size
No potting required; space divisions 6–12 inches apart in the garden.
Method
Divide clumps into smaller sections, ensuring each has roots and buds; replant at the same depth in fresh soil.
Suggestions
Not typically required as Anemone nemorosa is a perennial that spreads naturally; division is preferred over repotting.
Checklist
Divide clumps; replant at the same depth; water thoroughly; mulch lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water at the base; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone. Ensure water penetrates deeply to encourage root growth, and allow excess water to drain away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during active growth in spring, ensuring soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering significantly during dormancy in summer and fall.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and drainage; incorporate perlite or sand if soil is heavy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or failure to flower in excessive heat; slow growth or browning in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Prolonged cold can slow growth or damage tender foliage, though the plant is generally hardy to cold temperatures.
Solution: Provide a layer of mulch for insulation in winter; ensure good air circulation to prevent frost damage.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause the plant to go dormant prematurely, leading to reduced vigor and flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; maintain consistent soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid during dormancy; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength once in early spring as growth begins; avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicAnemone nemorosa is toxic to cats due to the presence of protoanemonin, which can cause severe gastrointestinal irritation and other systemic effects. Cats are particularly sensitive to plant toxins.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe toxic principles in Anemone nemorosa, particularly protoanemonin, can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and irritation in dogs. Ingestion may lead to significant discomfort and potential systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAnemone nemorosa contains toxic compounds, primarily protoanemonin, which is a skin and gastrointestinal irritant. Upon ingestion, it can cause significant physiological distress, including irritation of the mucous membranes and potential systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Anemone nemorosa toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: When does Anemone nemorosa bloom?
A: It typically blooms in early spring, often March to May.
Q: How should I care for Anemone nemorosa?
A: Plant in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil and avoid overwatering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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