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Data provenancePermapeopleTreflePFAFPOWOreviewed 18 Oct 2026methodology → read

Rue-Anemone

Anemonella thalictroides
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Anemonella thalictroides (Rue-Anemone) — botanical photograph
Pl. 1CBB — Anemonella thalictroides
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I

Overview

Rue-Anemone (Anemonella thalictroides) is a perennial plant native to eastern North America, thriving in moist environments with partial sun or full shade. This plant can be found across several states including Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, and the District of Columbia, among others. Known for its edible root, this plant has been utilized by indigenous communities. The root, often used raw or cooked, may require peeling due to its fibrous texture. Drying the root is another method to preserve it for later use. Rue-Anemone grows to a height of about 0.1 meters and prefers light (sandy) soil with good moisture retention. Its delicate white flowers appear in early spring, often before the leaves emerge, making it a charming ornamental addition to shady gardens or naturalized areas. The plant is hardy in zones 4-7 and grows well in partial sun to full shade. For propagation, gardeners can use root division or seed sowing. While not medicinal, its edible and ornamental value makes it a valuable addition to native plant gardens and natural landscapes.

Quick answers

What is Rue-Anemone?

Rue-Anemone (Anemonella thalictroides) is a perennial plant native to eastern North America, thriving in moist environments with partial sun or full shade. This plant can be found across several states including Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, and the District of Columbia, among others.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Rue-Anemone prefers partial sun to full shade and thrives in moist, light (sandy) soil. It is hardy in zones 4-7 and grows to a height of 0.1 meters. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist and provide a partially shaded area. Propagate via root division in the spring or fall. The plant is perennial and edible, with its roots being the edible part.
Light
Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy)
Hardiness
4-7
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.1 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Rue-Anemone for the first time

8steps

Start with planting Rue-Anemone in a partially shaded area with moist, light soil for your first gardening experience.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Rue-Anemone bulbs or seedlings, garden gloves, trowel.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist and cool.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a location with partial shade. Ensure the soil is light (sandy) and well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral pH.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Plant bulbs 2-3 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart in early spring or late fall.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep the soil consistently moist. Avoid overwatering, as Rue-Anemone prefers a cool environment.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead leaves in late winter before new growth emerges to maintain plant health.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting mulching, not providing enough shade.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The root of the rue-anemone is edible and can be prepared in various ways. It is often used raw or cooked, though it may require peeling before consumption due to its fibrous texture. Drying the root is another method to preserve it for later use.
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

36 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 36 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Masachusettes, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Rhode I., South Carolina, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Anemonella thalictroides (Rue-Anemone) — botanical photograph
Rue-Anemone (Anemonella thalictroides)
XI

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About this entry

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