Wood Anemone Anemone × lipsiensis 'Pallida'
ABOUT
The plant known as 'Pallida' is a hybrid variety of the wood anemone. It features delicate foliage, with leaves that are deeply divided and fern-like in texture. These leaves form a low-lying, attractive mound that serves as a backdrop for the flowers. In spring, the plant boasts an abundance of charming, soft pale yellow flowers. Each flower typically has several petal-like parts arranged in a whorl, encompassing a central cluster of prominent, contrasting stamens. The overall effect is one of a serene and naturalistic beauty, fitting for woodland gardens or shaded areas where it can spread to form a carpet of foliage and blooms. The flowers are also known for their subtle appearance, adding a touch of elegance to the garden without overwhelming it with bright colors or bold textures.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Pale Wood Anemone, Pale Yellow Wood Anemone
Common names
Anemone nemorosa 'Pallida', Anemone × lipsiensis 'Pallida'.
ToxicityTo humans
Wood anemone, including Anemone × lipsiensis 'Pallida', is considered toxic to humans. If ingested, it can cause significant irritation of the mucous membranes, and swallowing the plant may lead to severe gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Contact with the sap may also cause skin irritation or rashes in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Wood anemone is also toxic to pets. If your pet consumes this plant, it can experience similar symptoms of toxicity as humans. These may include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingestion of this plant can lead to lethargy, seizures, or even death if a significant amount is consumed and the animal is not treated promptly. It's important to prevent pets from having access to any part of this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pale yellow
Height
1 feet (30 cm)
Spread
1 feet (30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Appeal: Produces pale yellow flowers that add aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes.
- Spring Bloomer: Offers early spring blooms, providing one of the first splashes of color after winter.
- Attracts Pollinators: Welcomes bees and other pollinators, supporting biodiversity within the ecosystem.
- Ground Cover: Acts as a carpeting plant, spreading across the ground which can help reduce weed growth.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it can withstand periods without water, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once planted, ideal for gardeners seeking low-effort plants.
- Cold Hardy: Can survive in cooler climates, making it a versatile choice for various garden zones.
- Naturalizing: Capable of spreading naturally, which can create a more informal or wild look in gardens.
- Woodland Gardens: Suited for shady areas under trees or in woodland settings, providing versatility in garden design.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Anemone lipsiensis 'Pallida' can be used as part of a natural dye, with the petals imparting subtle hues to fabrics or yarns.
- The foliage may serve as a larval food source for certain species of butterflies, promoting biodiversity in gardens.
- This plant is sometimes incorporated in floral arrangements, specifically in 'green weddings' or eco-friendly events due to its soft colors.
- Dried anemone petals can be used in potpourri mixes to add a delicate fragrance and aesthetic appeal to a room.
- Anemone lipsiensis 'Pallida' can be used as a living mulch, as their foliage can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds when planted densely.
- Petals of the Anemone can be used in crafting, such as for making natural confetti or for inclusion in handmade paper.
- The plants can act as a visual indicator of soil health, as they tend to flourish in well-drained and fertile soil conditions.
- Anemone lipsiensis 'Pallida' can be planted as part of a sensory garden, providing a soft texture for tactile exploration.
- When planted in large swaths, these Anemone can serve as a ground cover to prevent soil erosion on slopes or banks.
- The blossoms can be used in nature photography to create a soft and romantic background or as subjects for macro photography.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Pale Anemone is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Pale Anemone is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Fragility and Protection: Anemone, in general, symbolizes fragility due to its delicate petals, and 'Pallida', like other anemones, is often associated with the need to handle relationships with care. Despite its fragile appearance, it embodies the sense of protection as the name "anemone" is derived from the Greek word for "windflower," suggesting protection from the wind that could blow its petals away.
- Anticipation and Expectation: Anemone blooms in spring, a time traditionally associated with new beginnings and the anticipation of joy after a long winter. 'Pallida' carries this meaning of looking forward to new experiences and adventures.
- Fading Hope and Forsaken Love: One of the mythological stories linked to the anemone speaks of the love goddess Aphrodite mourning the death of Adonis, with red anemones said to have sprung from her tears. While 'Pallida' is not red, it still carries the symbolism of a love that has ended and the hope that fades with separation or loss.
- Perseverance: Despite its delicate appearance, the anemone is able to thrive in many environments, symbolizing perseverance and the ability to endure challenging conditions.
WaterThe Wood Anemone 'Pallida' should be watered deeply to ensure the soil is moist, particularly during its growing season in spring. In general, aim to water them once a week, providing about 1 gallon of water per square yard of soil, depending on weather conditions. If the week has been dry and hot, additional water may be needed. Reduce watering after the blooms have faded and the plant goes dormant in summer. Always check the soil moisture level before watering to avoid over-watering, which can lead to root rot.
LightWood Anemone 'Pallida' thrives in partial shade to full shade conditions. It is ideally planted in a spot that receives dappled sunlight under the canopy of deciduous trees, or on the north side of a building where it can be protected from the harsh afternoon sun. These conditions mimic its natural woodland habitat, where it flourishes under a mix of sun and shade throughout the day.
TemperatureWood Anemone 'Pallida' prefers cooler temperatures and can generally tolerate a temperature range from just above freezing, approximately 34 degrees Fahrenheit, to about 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideal growing temperatures for this plant are between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to protect the plant from extreme heat, especially during the peak of summer.
PruningPruning Wood Anemone 'Pallida' is not generally required for the health of the plant, but spent flowers can be deadheaded to maintain a tidy appearance. After flowering, the foliage should be left to die back naturally as it provides energy for the next year's growth. Pruning by removing dead or damaged foliage can be done in late fall or early spring before new growth starts.
CleaningNot needed
SoilWood Anemone prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, generally around 5.5 to 7.0. A mix of loam, peat, and leaf mold or compost is ideal to maintain the right soil condition for optimum health and flowering.
RepottingWood Anemones grow from rhizomes, and the 'Pallida' variety typically does not require frequent repotting. It can be left undisturbed for several years and is best repotted or divided in the fall after the flowering period when necessary.
Humidity & MistingWood Anemone 'Pallida' is adapted to outdoor conditions and does not have specific humidity requirements. However, it naturally thrives in moderately humid environments similar to forest undergrowth or shaded gardens.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow in bright indirect light, ensure rich, moist soil.
Outdoor
Plant in dappled shade, enrich soil with compost, keep moist.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleAnemone × lipsiensis 'Pallida', commonly known as the Pale Wood Anemone, begins its life cycle when its seeds germinate in spring, preferably in damp and cold conditions. After germination, the seedlings develop into clump-forming perennials with fibrous roots that will establish themselves over several years. The leaves unfold, typically in early spring, followed by the flowering stage, where pale yellow blossoms appear, usually in April and May. After blooming, the flowers produce fruits in the form of dry achene that are carried away by wind or animals, aiding in the dispersal of seeds. Once the flowering is complete, the plant enters a dormancy phase in summer where the foliage dies back and the plant conserves energy within its root system. The cycle begins anew the following spring when temperatures rise and conditions are favorable, signaling the plant to emerge again from dormancy.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
The wood anemone variety Anemone × lipsiensis 'Pallida', commonly known as the pale wood anemone, is typically propagated through division, which is most effectively carried out in late fall or immediately after flowering in spring. To propagate by division, carefully lift the plants from the ground, ensuring to maintain a healthy clump of roots attached to each piece. Divide the rhizomes or tubers into smaller sections, each with at least one growth point or eye. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing previously, spacing them about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to allow enough room for growth. Water the newly planted divisions well to help establish them. Division allows for a quick and reliable method of propagation for pale wood anemone, resulting in new plants that are identical to the parent and will generally bloom within a year or two.
