Wood anemone, windflower, smell fox, granny's nightcap
Anemone nemorosa
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
While visually appealing, Anemone nemorosa has limited direct permaculture applications. The entire plant is poisonous. Traditionally, it has been used medicinally, but due to its toxicity, modern use is discouraged. It can act as a groundcover in woodland areas, contributing to soil health and attracting early pollinators. Its presence can indicate healthy woodland soil. No edible uses are known.
Permapeople description
Wood Anemone (Anemone nemorosa) is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plant in the Ranunculaceae family, native to Europe. It typically grows in deciduous woodlands. It features delicate white flowers with yellow stamens and deeply divided leaves. It thrives in moist, shaded conditions and blooms in early spring.
Botanical description
Anemone nemorosa is a perennial herbaceous flowering plant in the buttercup family Ranunculaceae. It typically grows to a height of 5–15 cm. It has a creeping rhizome, which spreads horizontally beneath the soil surface. The leaves are ternately compound, with three leaflets, each further divided into lobed segments. The flowers are solitary, white, and star-shaped, typically appearing in early spring. They consist of 5-9 petal-like sepals. The plant dies back to its rhizome by mid summer. Varieties exist with pink or blue-tinged flowers.
Companion planting
It thrives in the understory of deciduous woodland, so companion plants include other woodland species such as bluebells (Hyacinthoides non-scripta), primroses (Primula vulgaris), and ferns. Avoid planting near edible plants due to its toxicity. It naturally coexists with trees like oak and beech.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily achieved through rhizome division in early spring or late autumn. Seed propagation is possible but slow and can take several years to produce flowering plants. Division is the preferred method.
History and traditions
Historically, Anemone nemorosa has been used in traditional medicine, particularly for treating nervous disorders, rheumatism, and gout. However, its toxicity means it is rarely used today. In folklore, it was believed to ward off evil spirits and was often planted near doorways for protection.
Usage calendar
Flowering: March to May. Rhizome division: Early spring (March) or late autumn (October-November). Dieback: June-July.