Tall Thimbleweed (Anemone virginiana)

Tall Thimbleweed

Also known as: Thimble-Weed

The tall Thimbleweed (Anemone virginiana) is a wildflower native to the central and eastern parts of the United States and is known most commonly for bountiful flower shows in late summer. It can thrive in areas where other wildflowers would struggle from lack of sunlight. Dear, insects, and other diseases do not target this plant, making it incredibly hardy.

Scientific classification

Species

Tall Thimbleweed (Anemone virginiana)

Buttercups, poppies and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

30 cm to 80 cm

Plant Height

30 cm to 45 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

White, Green

Flower Color

Summer dormancy, Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Images of Tall Thimbleweed

Toxicity

Tall Thimbleweed is a toxic plant affecting cats and dogs. Ingestion of any plant part, such as leaves, flowers, or bark, causes gastrointestinal upset and other symptoms. Contact with the sap leads to skin dermatitis. Immediate veterinary care is essential upon suspected poisoning. All parts contain protoanemonin, causing burning, vomiting, and diarrhea in pets and skin blisters in humans.

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Quickly Identify Tall Thimbleweed

Tall perennial, 1-4 feet (30-120 cm), with divided leaves in whorls, toothed lobes.

White to greenish-white flowers, cup-shaped with yellow stamen center, blooming mid to late summer.

Elongated achene fruit, cottony with long white hairs for wind dispersal, resembling a thimble.

Palmately compound leaves in basal clusters and whorls, serrated margins, yellowish tint in sun.

Stout, hairy-textured green stem, minimal branching, about 0.2 inches (0.5 cm) thick.

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Care Guide for Tall Thimbleweed

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Tall Thimbleweed prefers moderate moisture and thrives in well-draining soil, typical of its temperate origins. Water weekly to maintain hydration, avoiding waterlogging. While drought-resistant, consistent moisture supports healthy growth, especially during the active season to prevent root rot.

Fertilize: Tall Thimbleweed thrives on balanced nutrition fertilizers for optimal growth. Apply moderately at the start of the growing season, reducing frequency as it matures. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent harm, and follow product instructions for application tailored to tall Thimbleweed's life stage for best results.

Pruning: Tall Thimbleweed features an upright habit and unique seed heads. Prune in early to late spring to remove damaged stems and encourage healthy growth. Minimal pruning helps preserve its natural form, enhances flowering, and improves airflow, preventing disease.

Propagation: The best propagation method for tall Thimbleweed is via tubers in Spring, with moderate difficulty. Success is marked by the emergence of new shoots and leaves. Maintaining appropriate moisture levels is essential for optimal growth.

Repotting: Repot tall Thimbleweed every 2-3 years in early spring to aid growth and avoid overcrowding. Use a medium-sized pot with good drainage. Post-repotting, provide bright, indirect light and keep soil consistently moist, avoiding waterlogging, while offering extra care during recovery.

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