Growing Anemonella thalictroides (Rue Anemone)

Pronunciation: ah-nem-on-el'-lah

A native of Eastern woodlands, this diminutive charmer has delicate blue-green foliage reminiscent of Maidenhair Fern, topped by flowers shaped like tiny Anemones in spring to early summer. Only reaching four to six inches, plants are deer resistant and low maintenance. They may be slow to establish, but given time will spread to form colonies 12in across. Divide in early spring.

Light/Watering: Rue Anemone requires part to full shade. This plant will flower for a longer period if sufficient moisture is received, so water if conditions become dry in spring.

Fertilizer/Soil and pH: Anemonella thrives in moist, sharply drained soils rich in humus. A pH near neutral is preferred (6.8-7.0), so add lime if your soil is more acidic.

Pests/Diseases: Protect from slugs if they are a problem, and allow good air circulation to avoid powdery mildew.

Companions: Ferns, Primula, Erythronium, Claytonia virginica, and Cyclamen coum make lovely woodland companions.