Anemonella thalictroides var. rosea

Rue Anemone Ranunculaceae

The rose-pink form of the exquisite rue anemone, Anemonella thalictroides var. rosea is a diminutive North American woodland perennial that manages to combine delicacy with surprising longevity. In spring, its finely divided, almost fern-like foliage emerges from a small tuberous rootstock, quickly followed by charming flowers in shades of soft pink to rose, held just above the foliage on slender stems. It is an ideal plant for those who appreciate understatement: no shouting, no swagger, just a little cloud of pink appearing beneath the trees.

Native to eastern North America, from Canada southwards through the eastern United States, it grows naturally in deciduous woodland, rocky woods and rich, well-drained soils. In cultivation it appreciates similar conditions—humus-rich, well-drained soil in light or dappled shade, with moisture during its spring growth. Once flowering and setting seed it gradually retreats underground for summer, making it particularly useful amongst later-emerging woodland perennials and ferns.

The rosea form is particularly attractive planted where it can be viewed at close quarters, perhaps beside a path, in a shaded trough or naturalised amongst hepatica, Trillium and other woodland treasures. It is summer dormant, and the disappearing foliage should be regarded as part of the performance rather than a sign that something has gone wrong.

Taxonomically, Anemonella thalictroides is a distinct North American species in the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae; the traditional variety rosea is the pink-flowered form.

Distribution: Eastern North America
Flowering: March–May
Growing conditions: Humus-rich, well-drained soil; light to dappled shade; summer dormancy
Hardiness: H5 — approximately -15 to -10°C
Height: 10–20cm
Spread: 15–25cm