Wood Anemone
Anemone quinquefolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, CT, DE, GA and 26 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Wood anemone is a delicate spring wildflower that produces white, five-petaled blooms in April and May. This low-growing native perennial forms small colonies in partially shaded areas and goes dormant by midsummer, leaving bare spots for the rest of the growing season.
In an HOA neighborhood
Wood 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.
- Disappears completely by midsummer leaving bare patches
- Very informal woodland appearance
- Can look like weeds or dying plants when emerging or going dormant
Wildlife value
The early spring flowers provide nectar for native bees and beetles when few other food sources are available. However, the plant offers limited wildlife value compared to other native options due to its short bloom period and summer dormancy.
Common questions
- How much sun does Wood Anemone need?
- Wood Anemone grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Wood Anemone bloom?
- Wood Anemone blooms in April and May.
- Where is Wood Anemone native?
- Wood Anemone (Anemone quinquefolia) is native to AL, CT, DE, GA and 26 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Wood Anemone attract?
- Wood Anemone draws bees and beetles.
- Is Wood Anemone HOA-friendly?
- Wood 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.
Ready to grow Wood Anemone? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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