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Tall Thimbleweed

Anemone virginiana

Also known as Thimbleweed, Tall Anemone, Riverbank Anemone

herbaceousβ›… part shadeπŸ’§πŸ’§ moderate water❄ Hardy: Zone 2a – Zone 8b

Climate Match for your location

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A native wildflower with delicate white flowers followed by distinctive thimble-shaped seed heads. It thrives in woodland settings and attracts pollinators throughout the growing season.

Why grow it

Tall thimbleweed offers extended visual interest compared to many woodland wildflowers, with ornamental seed heads persisting well into autumn after flowering concludes. It performs reliably in dappled shade with moderate moisture, making it a lower-maintenance choice than some native anemones that require more exacting conditions. The plant's moderate height (2-3 feet) and restrained spread allow it to fit into mixed plantings without aggressive competition.

Watch out for

In rich, consistently moist soil, this species may self-seed more prolifically than anticipated in smaller garden spaces. Slugs and spider mites can occasionally reduce foliage quality, particularly in humid growing conditions with poor air circulation. Establishment can be slow in the first season, so patience and consistent moisture during early growth will improve long-term performance.

Overview

Form
Upright
Growth Rate
moderate
Size
2–3β€² tall Γ— 1.5–2.5β€² wide
Dormancy
deciduous
Family
Ranunculaceae
Pollinators & beneficial insects

Native to the United States

Native Range

Eastern North America

Native to: Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Delaware, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Virginia, Vermont, Wisconsin, West Virginia, Wyoming

Seasonality

Bloom Season

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Season of Interest

Summer

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Companion Planting

Plants well with