SafePlants

Wood Anemone (Anemone nemorosa)

The Wood Anemone, scientifically known as Anemone nemorosa, is a charming spring flower cherished for its delicate beauty and association with ancient woodlands.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions rhizomes which spread just below the ground.
• The plant produces seeds.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions rhizomes which spread just below the ground.
• The plant produces seeds.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Anemone nemorosa
• Common Names: Wood Anemone, Windflower, Smell Fox, Thimbleweed
• Family: Ranunculaceae (Buttercup Family)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Europe and found throughout Britain.
• Typically found in ancient woodlands, shady banks, glades, graveyards, parks, and gardens.
• Often indicates the site of old woodland.
• Wood Anemone was found in Lincolnshire to be the species most closely following the distribution of ancient woodlands.
• Found in the New Forest.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Early-spring flowering plant.
• Low-growing plant, usually about 20 cm in height.
• Each stem has a single, white, star-shaped flower, often flushed with pink or mauve.
• Flowers bloom from March to May.
• Flowers are 1 inch across, with numerous stamens.
• The "petals" are actually sepals.
• Leaves are simple but deeply divided, giving them a palmate appearance.
• Has a long, tough, creeping wood-stock (rhizome) running just below the ground, facilitating rapid spread.

Quirky Facts

• Wood Anemones are considered an indicator of ancient woodland sites.
• It's slow to spread, only about six feet in an unspecified amount of time.