Green Wood Anemone Anemone nemorosa 'Virescens'
ABOUT
The Anemone nemorosa 'Virescens', commonly known as the green wood anemone, is a distinct variety with a unique appearance that sets it apart from the typical wood anemones. Instead of the common white, petal-like sepals, this variety's flowers are transformed into feathery, tufted, green leaf-like structures. These modified flowers create an intriguing, ruffled look that is highly valued for its ornamental qualities. The plant itself sports a lush array of fern-like foliage that is delicate in texture, creating a backdrop of soft green beneath the intriguing green blooms. This attractive foliage emerges early in the spring, further adding to its appeal as it brings fresh greenery to the garden after the winter season. Overall, the green wood anemone 'Virescens' is recognized for its curious flower form, contributing both texture and a touch of whimsy wherever it is planted.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae.
Synonyms
Green Wood Anemone, Green-flowered Wood Anemone.
Common names
Anemone nemorosa 'Virescens'.
ToxicityTo humans
Wood anemone is considered poisonous due to the presence of toxic compounds such as protoanemonin. Ingesting any part of the plant can cause mouth and throat irritation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, it may also lead to respiratory problems and skin reactions. It is important for humans to avoid consumption of this plant.
To pets
Wood anemone is toxic to pets as well. Similar to humans, ingestion of any part of the plant can lead to gastrointestinal upset including drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some cases, it might cause lethargy or abdominal pain. Contact with the skin can potentially cause dermatitis. Pet owners should prevent their animals from ingesting or coming into contact with this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Green
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Anemone nemorosa 'Virescens' is known to attract bees and other pollinators, which is beneficial for garden biodiversity and the pollination of nearby plants.
- Erosion Control: Its root system helps stabilize soil and prevents erosion, especially in shady woodland areas.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The unique green flowers of the 'Virescens' variety add unusual visual interest to gardens and naturalized areas in the springtime.
- Low Maintenance: Wood Anemone requires minimal care once established, making it a convenient choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Wildlife Habitat: It provides shelter and habitat for small wildlife, such as insects, contributing to a healthy and balanced ecosystem.
- Ground Cover: The plant forms a carpet of foliage that can suppress weeds, reducing the need for weeding and the use of herbicides.
- Spring Interest: The plant blooms early in the spring, providing one of the first signs of life in a garden after winter.
- Companion Planting: It can be planted alongside other shade-loving plants to create a varied and attractive woodland garden display.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Anemone nemorosa 'Virescens' can tolerate periods of drought, making it suitable for gardens with variable rainfall.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Education: Anemone nemorosa 'Virescens' can be used in educational settings such as botany classes to illustrate plant variation and the concept of forma (a taxonomic rank used for plants below subspecies).
- Garden Design: Its unique foliage and flower form can be used for contrast in woodland garden design, providing a different texture and color than typical flowering plants.
- Art and Photography: The plant's intricate form and distinctive look can serve as an inspiring subject for botanical artists and photographers.
- Floral Arrangements: While not a traditional cut flower, it might be used by avant-garde floral designers in fresh or dried arrangements for its architectural form.
- Cultural Symbolism: Can be utilized in literature or art for its historical associations with spring and mythology, adding layers of meaning to creative works.
- Mood Improvement: The presence of this attractive plant in gardens or natural settings could contribute to the emotional well-being of individuals by enhancing the beauty of their surroundings.
- Bee Attraction: As a spring-blooming plant, it can provide an early source of nectar for bees emerging from hibernation when other food sources are scarce.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not commonly used for consumption, the leaves could potentially be used as an ornamental garnish for specialty dishes in high-end culinary presentations.
- Green Roofing: The plant could be incorporated into green roof designs for buildings, especially those aiming for a more natural, woodland aesthetic.
- Seasonal Celebrations: May be included in seasonal decorations or festivities that celebrate spring, such as creating natural Easter displays.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiWood anemone is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityWood anemone is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Fragility - Anemone nemorosa 'Virescens', commonly known as Wood Anemone, has a delicate appearance that symbolizes fragility and the transient nature of life.
- Anticipation - Wood Anemone blooms in early spring, symbolizing anticipation for new beginnings and the upcoming joys that the warm season brings.
- Protection - In folklore, the Wood Anemone was believed to ward off evil and bad luck, representing a symbol of protection.
- Death and the afterlife - Because they often grow in graveyards and their blooming coincides with Easter, they are sometimes associated with death and resurrection.
WaterThe Green Anemone prefers consistently moist soil, so it’s important to water it when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, this means watering once every week, but the frequency can increase to twice per week during particularly hot or dry periods. When watering, aim to provide about one to two gallons of water, depending on the plant's size and the environmental conditions, ensuring that the soil is evenly moistened but not waterlogged. Adjust the amount based on rainfall and temperature, as overwatering can lead to root rot.
LightThe Green Anemone thrives in dappled sunlight to partial shade. The best spot for this plant would be under the canopy of deciduous trees, where it will receive filtered light. Avoid exposing it to direct afternoon sun, as this can be too intense and might cause leaf scorch.
TemperatureThe Green Anemone is hardy in a temperature range from 28 to 86°F, but its ideal growing conditions are between 50 and 70°F. It can survive light frosts, but extended periods of extreme cold or heat can be detrimental to the plant's health. Ensure it's protected from harsh winter winds and extreme summer heat by choosing a suitable planting location.
PruningPruning the Green Anemone is generally not necessary, as it is a low-maintenance plant. However, if desired, deadheading spent flowers can encourage a tidier appearance and potentially promote additional blooms. The best time for any pruning would be after flowering has ceased, usually in late spring or early summer.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWood Anemone 'Virescens' thrives in moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter with a preferred pH range of 5.0 to 7.0. The ideal soil mix should be a blend of loam, peat, and coarse sand or perlite to ensure good drainage and aeration.
RepottingWood Anemone 'Virescens' requires minimal repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years. It's advisable to repot only if overcrowding occurs, typically every 3-5 years.
Humidity & MistingWood Anemone 'Virescens' prefers a moderate humidity level, similar to that found in its natural woodland habitat. However, it is quite adaptable and can tolerate the varying humidity levels typically found in the home environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow in cool, shaded area with high humidity and moist soil.
Outdoor
Plant in dappled shade with rich, moist, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleAnemone nemorosa 'Virescens', commonly known as the green-flowered wood anemone, begins its life cycle as a seed which, upon germination in suitable moist and shaded conditions, develops into a small rhizome. As spring approaches, the rhizome sprouts foliage and distinctive, green, fern-like flowers that lack the usual petal coloration, giving the plant a unique appearance. After flowering in early spring, the plant undergoes pollination, which is predominantly facilitated by wind or insects, leading to the formation of seed heads. By late spring or early summer, the above-ground parts of the plant die back and it enters a period of dormancy, with the rhizome surviving underground. During this dormant phase, the rhizome experiences a period of rest and energy conservation throughout the summer and winter. As the next spring arrives, the plant emerges from dormancy, regrows its foliage, and the cycle begins anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
Propogation: Wood anemone, particularly the Anemone nemorosa 'Virescens', is commonly propagated through division, which is best done in the fall after the plant has died back or in early spring before growth resumes. The division involves carefully digging up the rhizomes, which are the horizontal underground stems, and then gently separating them into smaller pieces ensuring that each piece has at least one bud or eye. These rhizome segments can then be replanted at the same depth they were originally growing at, about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 centimeters) deep, and spaced about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the new plantings well to help establish them. Over time, the divisions will grow into new plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant, thus preserving any unique characteristics of the 'Virescens' variety.
