Rue-anemone
Anemonella thalictroides
Last reviewed: July 2026
Rue-anemone is a delicate spring wildflower native to eastern North America that blooms March through May in partial shade. This low-growing perennial produces small white flowers and attracts native bees and beetles.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 28 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Rue-anemone is a delicate woodland wildflower that produces small white or pink flowers in spring before going dormant in summer. This low-growing native perennial thrives in shaded areas and forms small colonies over time through underground tubers.
Growing Rue-anemone
Grow Rue-anemone in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 6 to 12 inches tall and spread 4 to 8 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Rue-anemone takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Goes completely dormant by mid-summer leaving bare spots
- Very small and can appear sparse or weedy
- Woodland wildflower appearance may look unintentional
Wildlife value
The spring flowers provide nectar for early-season bees and beetles when few other blooms are available. As a native ephemeral, it supports the woodland ecosystem during its brief growing season.
Common questions
- When does Rue-anemone bloom?
- Rue-anemone typically blooms from March through May, producing delicate white flowers in early to mid-spring.
- What pollinators visit Rue-anemone?
- Rue-anemone attracts native bees and beetles, which help pollinate its small spring flowers.
- What growing conditions does Rue-anemone prefer?
- Rue-anemone thrives in partial shade to shade with medium moisture levels, making it ideal for woodland gardens and naturalized areas.
- Is Rue-anemone native to Florida?
- Yes, Rue-anemone is native to Florida and many other eastern states, though it is more common in the northern parts of its range.
- Is Rue-anemone HOA-friendly?
- Rue-anemone takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Does Rue-anemone fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.