Anemone sylvestris
Anemone sylvestris · Ranunculaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant anemone sylvestris: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- April to June
- Adult size
- 16 to 24 inches in height
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to 5°F/-15°C)
- Origin
- Central and Eastern Europe
- Soil type
- Well-draining, humus-rich, slightly acidic to neutral
Care
Watering
Keep the soil lightly moist during the growing season and flowering period. Reduce watering after flowering, especially during dormancy. Avoid excess moisture, which promotes rhizome rot. Moderate and regular watering in spring is generally sufficient.
Light Exposure
Prefer a partially shaded to shaded location, typically in woodland or light dappled shade. Wild anemone tolerates partial sun but appreciates protection from direct afternoon rays in warm climates. Too much shade reduces flowering.
Soil and Planting
Plant in organic-rich, well-draining, and slightly moist soil. Loosen the soil before planting and enrich it with compost. The rhizome should be planted at shallow depth, barely covered with soil.
Fertilization
Incorporate compost or enriched potting soil at planting time. An annual compost application in spring is generally sufficient. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers that promote foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning and Maintenance
Remove spent flowers after flowering to encourage possible repeat blooming. Let the foliage dry naturally before cutting back in autumn. Clean up plant debris to minimize disease risks.
Pests and Diseases
Wild anemone is generally robust. Watch for powdery mildew during alternating dry and humid weather. Excess moisture can cause rhizome rot; good air circulation and adequate drainage are preventive measures.
Did you know?
The wild anemone is one of the earliest spring flowers in European forests, sometimes forming spectacular white carpets. Its name comes from the Greek 'anemone' meaning 'daughter of the wind,' as its petals disperse easily. It long symbolized delicacy and absence in 19th-century flower language.
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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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.