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Key characteristics

Family: Ranunculaceae
Height: 6 to 10 in
Width: 6 to 12 in
Flower color: Soft white to pale pink, solitary saucer-shaped blooms with contrasting yellow centers
Foliage color: Medium green, delicate compound leaves
Bloom time: Early spring
Light: Partial shade to light shade
Water: Moderate moisture
Maintenance: Low; remove spent flowers to tidy planting, allow foliage to die back naturally after bloom
Growing zone: USDA zones 4 to 8
Wildlife: Bees and other early-season pollinators

Groundcovers

Anemonella thalictroides

Rue Anemone

Anemonella thalictroides produces delicate, star-shaped flowers in shades of soft white to pale pink, often accented by yellow stamens. Blooming in early to mid spring, the blossoms float above finely divided, blue-green foliage with a fernlike texture. Slender stems create an airy appearance that complements its gentle woodland character.

Native to eastern North America, this spring ephemeral emerges briefly before summer dormancy. It is well suited to woodland gardens, shaded borders, and naturalized plantings beneath deciduous trees.

Light

Partial shade to light shade

Water

Moderate moisture

Bloom time

Early spring

Find this plant

Works well in

Pollinator Gardens
Woodland Gardens
Borders
Rock Gardens

Companion plants

Trilliums · Virginia bluebells · Ferns · Hellebores · Hostas · Epimediums

Design tip

Reserve this delicate spring ephemeral for intimate garden spaces where its fine texture can be appreciated without being overshadowed by larger plants. Woodland trails, small clearings, and shaded seating areas all provide ideal settings for close viewing.