Wood anemone
Anemone quinquefolia · Ranunculaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant wood anemone: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- Spring (April-May)
- Adult size
- 20-30 cm in height
- Growth
- Slow to moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (-20°C and below)
- Origin
- North America (wooded areas)
- Soil type
- Rich, humus-rich, well-drained
Care
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist in spring and summer, especially during the growth and flowering phase. Reduce watering after summer dormancy. Avoid excessive moisture in winter as it may rot the rhizome.
Light exposure
Plant in partial shade or light shade, ideally beneath deciduous trees. This anemone appreciates filtered light and dislikes overly sunny, dry locations.
Soil and substrate
Enrich the soil with compost or well-decomposed organic matter to recreate its natural woodland habitat. Slightly acidic to neutral soil is preferable. Ensure good drainage to prevent rhizome suffocation.
Fertilizing
An annual application of well-matured compost in spring is generally sufficient. Avoid overly concentrated fertilizers that may burn the delicate foliage. Regular organic matter is more beneficial than chemical fertilizer.
Pruning and cleanup
No pruning is necessary. Let the foliage dry out naturally at the end of spring. You can remove dead leaves once they are completely brown to keep your flower bed tidy.
Diseases and pests
Fiveleaf anemone is generally very resistant. Watch for rhizome rot if there is persistent excess moisture. Slugs may damage young leaves: regular vigilance is usually sufficient to control populations.
Did you know?
The fiveleaf anemone is much loved by North American gardeners who have cultivated it since the 19th century in shaded gardens. Its scientific name "quinquefolia" literally means "five-leafed," referring to the blade divided into five leaflets characteristic of the plant. It is an ideal companion plant for ferns, embodying a naturalized garden and peaceful woodland aesthetic.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- Grecian windflowerAnemone blanda
- Lenten roseHelleborus orientalis
- Hubei AnemoneEriocapitella hupehensis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.