Snowdrop Anemone (Anemone sylvestris)

Snowdrop Anemone

Anemone sylvestris

Its nodding white blooms hang like fallen snowflakes. Herbaceous perennial; common name: snowdrop anemone.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Partial shade to full sun; prefers dappled light in hot summer climates, tolerates full sun in cool temperate regions.
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Watering Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely during the growing season.
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Temperature Hardy to -20°C; avoids prolonged temperatures above 28°C to prevent stress and reduced flowering.
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Basal leaves are deeply divided into three lobes, glossy green with toothed margins.
  • Flower: Nodding white cup-shaped blooms with bright yellow stamens, 3–5 cm in diameter.
  • Stem: Slender upright green stems bearing a few smaller stem leaves.
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist; water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced liquid fertilizer once monthly. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote flowering rather than excessive foliage growth

Composted banana peel tea:Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours, dilute at a 1:20 ratio, and apply as a root drench to support flowering; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestations
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage prolonged flowering throughout spring and early summer.
  • Cut back all foliage to ground level after the first autumn frost to prepare the plant for winter dormancy.
  • Thin overcrowded clumps every 2–3 years in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk.
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains protoanemonin which irritates the gastrointestinal tract and oral mucosa.

Humans: Ingestion causes mild oral irritation, nausea, and abdominal discomfort if consumed in large quantities.

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden plant, cut flower for floral arrangements