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Key characteristics

Family: Ranunculaceae
Height: 6 to 12 inches
Width: 6 to 12 inches
Flower color: White, sometimes tinged with pink or blue
Foliage color: Dark green
Bloom time: Early spring (March to May)
Light: Part shade to full shade
Water: Medium moisture, well-drained soil
Maintenance: Low maintenance; can be left undisturbed once established
Growing zone: USDA Zones 4 to 8
Wildlife: The flowers attract bees and butterflies, while the seeds are eaten by birds

Groundcovers

Anemone nemorosa

Wood Anemone

Anemone nemorosa is an enchanting perennial that heralds the arrival of spring with its delicate, star-like flowers. Native to Europe and parts of Asia, this plant is well-suited to woodland gardens, shady borders, and naturalized areas. The flowers of Anemone nemorosa are solitary, with six to eight petal-like segments surrounding a cluster of yellow stamens. They rise above the foliage on slender stems, creating a lovely contrast against the backdrop of dark green leaves.

Light

Part shade to full shade

Water

Medium moisture, well-drained soil

Bloom time

Early spring (March to May)

Find this plant

Works well in

Pollinator Gardens
Woodland Gardens
Borders
Deer Prone Areas

Companion plants

Hellebores · Epimediums · Brunneras · Ferns · Hostas · Pulmonarias

Design tip

Plant beneath deciduous trees where its early blooms provide seasonal interest before the canopy fills with leaves. Encourage natural colonies to develop over time, creating a graceful woodland carpet that returns with greater impact each spring.