Western pasqueflower

anemone rubra

Also known as: ["Western anemone","Windflower"]

Family: Ranunculaceae Genus: Anemone Category: Flowers

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant native to western North America, known for its nodding pinkish-purple flowers and silky seed heads.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Ranunculales
Family: Ranunculaceae
Genus: Anemone
Botanical Name: Anemone rubra

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or woodland setting
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Well-draining to fast-draining.
  • Soil Type: Rich, well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 3–4 hours of morning sun or dappled light; protect from harsh afternoon sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to sunlight; avoid direct sun to prevent scorching; place in shaded areas outdoors or north-facing windows indoors.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full shade

Morning sun is best; provide shade in afternoon; rotate plant for even growth.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

moist, well-draining, rich in organic matter

pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).

Ensure good drainage; use acidic amendments if needed; avoid heavy clay soils.

Temperature

Cool to moderate temperatures; 50–70°F (10–21°C); tolerates cooler nights.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool temperatures.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize sparingly; stop in winter; water before feeding to prevent root burn.

Propagation

Methods

Division or stem cuttings.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Divide clumps.
  2. Take stem cuttings.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Wait for roots.

Best Time: Early spring or after flowering.

Environment

High humidity, indirect light, and consistent warmth (60–70°F).

Medium

Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.

Hormone

Optional, but can help with root initiation.

Timeline

4–8 weeks for roots; 3–6 months to establish.

Tools Needed

Sharp knife, rooting hormone, pots, humidity dome.

Quick Tips

Divide every 2–3 years; use clean tools; keep cuttings moist.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut back spent flower stems; thin out crowded growth.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or damaged foliage; shape plant to encourage bushiness.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead growth; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size up; increase pot diameter by 2–3 inches.

Method

Use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage; gently tease out roots if pot-bound.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot.

Checklist

Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess to drain; water early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without disturbing soil.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or peat moss for fertility; mix perlite or sand for drainage.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; mold or root rot in cold, wet conditions.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.

Solution: Protect from frost; ensure good drainage; move indoors in freezing temperatures.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid winter feeding.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Anemone rubra may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or root rot, often resulting from poor drainage or fungal infections. It can also be a sign of stress from environmental factors such as excessive sunlight or temperature fluctuations.

Wilting in Anemone rubra is typically caused by water stress, either due to under or overwatering. It can also result from root damage, pathogen infection, or environmental stress, leading to reduced turgor pressure in the plant tissues.

Leaf spots on Anemone rubra are often caused by fungal pathogens such as Cercospora or Alternaria, leading to unsightly lesions on the leaves. Severe infections can cause defoliation and weaken the plant, reducing its vigor and aesthetic appeal.

Rotting in Anemone rubra is commonly associated with root or stem rot, often caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil, leading to fungal infections such as Pythium or Fusarium. This can cause the plant to decline rapidly and may lead to death if not addressed.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are particularly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Anemone rubra. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal distress and irritation, with potential for systemic toxicity depending on the amount consumed.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea drooling abdominal pain lethargy tremors
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary care if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Anemone rubra can lead to gastrointestinal upset and irritation due to the presence of protoanemonin. The compound can cause significant discomfort and potential systemic effects if consumed in large quantities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea drooling abdominal pain lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Anemone rubra contains toxic compounds, primarily protoanemonin, which can cause significant irritation and inflammation upon ingestion. The plant's effects are due to the disruption of cellular processes and mucous membrane irritation.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain salivation skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion. Wash hands thoroughly after handling the plant. Keep out of reach of children.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Anemone rubra toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: Does Anemone rubra attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Q: How much shade does Anemone rubra tolerate?

A: It tolerates partial to full shade, making it suitable for woodland gardens.

Quick Reference
Family: Ranunculaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Corn Buttercup
View
Thoreau's Monkshood
View
Creeping Buttercup
View
Sweet Autumn Clematis
View