Anemone sylvestris
snowdrop windflower
A herbaceous perennial spreading rapidly by root suckers. The long-stalked leaves are mid-green and deeply divided. White flowers up to 8cm across, with golden stamens appear in late spring and early summer
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or West–facing or East–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Ranunculaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Suckering
- Potentially harmful
- Ingestion may cause mild stomach upset, contact may irritate skin. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
Anemone are herbaceous perennials with fibrous, rhizomatous or tuberous rootstocks, palmately lobed leaves and saucer-shaped, usually 5-petalled flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe, Caucasus
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in humus-rich, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade
Propagation
Propagate by division in early spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildflower meadow
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut back after flowering
Pests
May be damaged by eelworms, slugs and caterpillars
Diseases
Powdery mildews may be a problem
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.