Thimbleweed
Anemone virginiana
Last reviewed: July 2026
Anemone virginiana (Thimbleweed) is a native wildflower blooming June through August across most of the eastern and central United States. This adaptable perennial attracts bees and beetles with white flowers.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CO, CT and 33 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Deer
Resistant (per Prairie Moon Nursery)
Thimbleweed is a native wildflower that produces small white flowers in summer followed by distinctive thimble-shaped seed heads. This perennial grows in clumps and spreads slowly by underground rhizomes, making it useful for naturalizing in partly shaded areas.
Growing Thimbleweed
Grow Thimbleweed in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Thimbleweed is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- Can look weedy when dormant
- May spread beyond intended areas
- Informal wildflower appearance
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and beetles during the summer blooming period. The seed heads provide food for small birds and add winter interest to the garden.
Common questions
- When does Thimbleweed bloom?
- Anemone virginiana blooms from June through August, producing white flowers that attract various pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Thimbleweed?
- Thimbleweed attracts bees and beetles, which visit the flowers for nectar and pollen during the summer blooming period.
- Where is Anemone virginiana native?
- Thimbleweed is native to most of the eastern and central United States, ranging from Maine to Georgia and west to Wyoming and Colorado.
- What growing conditions does Thimbleweed prefer?
- Anemone virginiana is adaptable to various light conditions from full sun to partial shade and tolerates a range of moisture levels from dry to wet soils.
- Is Thimbleweed HOA-friendly?
- Thimbleweed 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 Thimbleweed? 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