Candle Anemone
Anemone cylindrica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Anemone cylindrica is a native wildflower found across much of North America, blooming white flowers from May through July. This hardy perennial thrives in prairies and open woodlands from the Great Plains to New England.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CO, CT, IA and 23 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Candle anemone is a graceful native wildflower that produces delicate white flowers on slender stems from May through July. After blooming, it forms distinctive fluffy seed heads that give the plant its candle-like appearance. The foliage dies back in winter, returning each spring from underground roots.
Growing Candle Anemone
Grow Candle Anemone in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 24 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Candle Anemone is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- Can look sparse or weedy when dormant in winter
- Seed heads may appear untidy to some HOAs
Wildlife value
This native plant attracts bees and beetles during its blooming period. The seeds provide food for birds and small wildlife.
Common questions
- When does Candle Anemone bloom?
- Anemone cylindrica blooms from May through July, producing small white flowers followed by distinctive cylindrical seed heads that give the plant its common name.
- What pollinators visit Candle Anemone?
- Candle Anemone attracts various bees and beetles that feed on its pollen and nectar during the spring and early summer blooming period.
- Where is Anemone cylindrica native?
- This species is native to 29 states spanning from the Great Plains eastward to New England and south to the Southwest, including states like Minnesota, Kansas, Colorado, and Connecticut.
- What growing conditions does Candle Anemone prefer?
- Anemone cylindrica adapts to various light conditions from full sun to partial shade and tolerates medium to dry soils, making it suitable for prairie restorations and native plant gardens.
- Is Candle Anemone HOA-friendly?
- Candle Anemone is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Candle Anemone? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz