Anemone quinquefolia aka Wood Anemone

Anemone quinquefolia, or wood anemone, belongs to the buttercup family. Some sources use the name Anemonoides quinquefolia for this species. This perennial grows in central and eastern North America. Its range spans parts of Canada and the United States. Wild plants grow in damp woods, thickets, and clearings. They also occur beside streams and sometimes in swampy ground.

Plants usually flower at about 0.7–1 foot (0.2–0.3 metres) tall. Underground rhizomes spread slowly to form a dense mat. The main account gives a spread near 1 foot (0.3 metres). A broader size table lists larger limits. These reach 1.75 feet (0.53 metres) tall and 1.83 feet (0.56 metres) wide. Slender green stalks may bear hairs. Three compound leaves form a whorl near the stem tip. Each leaf divides into three to five sharply toothed segments. Their green colour may carry a purple tint. Basal leaves may be absent when the plant flowers.

Flowers open from March to May on single stalk tips. Each cup has five to seven sepals that resemble petals. Most are white, sometimes washed with pink or purple. Many stamens surround the green centre. Flowers shut at night and during cloudy weather. Bees visit the blooms. Small heads of achenes appear from June to July. These oval fruits have beaks and may bear feathery tails. Young plants can take five years to start flowering.

Grow wood anemone in partial shade or beneath filtered light. It prefers rich, acidic soil that stays moist but drains well. Ordinary garden soil can also support it. Plants tolerate dry spells during their summer rest. North Carolina State lists USDA zones 4–8. Plants For A Future reports hardiness to at least −20°C. Use it as ground cover beneath deciduous trees. It also suits woodland gardens, small groups, and mass plantings. Propagate it through division or seed.

Care needs are low, and serious problems are uncommon. Watch for leaf spot, powdery mildew, aphids, and spider mites. Deer tend to leave it alone. No edible uses are recorded. Fresh plant parts contain the irritant protoanemonin. Sap can inflame or blister skin. Eating it can irritate the mouth and cause stomach upset. Historical medicinal uses do not make it safe to eat.