What’s up, buttercup? False Rue Anemone may not have the classic yellow flower, but this dainty spring ephemeral is actually a member of the buttercup family. Over time, False Rue Anemone spreads to form thick colonies, creating a carpet of green leaves and white flowers along the forest floor - or in your shade garden. The beautiful, white flowers have five petals and rise above delicate, lobed leaves very similar to those of Rue Anemone. Bask in the beauty of these miniature delights while you can because plants go dormant by mid-summer, only reappearing next spring when they emerge anew.
Conditions: Part sun to shade; medium, rich soil
Size: <1’ tall
Zone: 3 – 8
Wildlife Value: Flowers produce pollen, but no nectar; pollen attracts small bees and pollinating flies
Photo: Samantha Nestory