zoom_in Click to enlarge

Tall Thimbleweed

▲ ▼

description Tall Thimbleweed Overview

Tall Thimbleweed (*Anemone virginiana*) is a perennial wildflower native to the prairies, woodlands, and savannas of eastern and central North America. It produces solitary, whitish-green flowers on erect, hairy stems that can reach heights of up to three feet. The plant is most easily identified by its unique, cylindrical seed heads that elongate and become cottony as they mature, resembling a thimble. It blooms in the summer and is suitable for naturalized landscaping and pollinator gardens.

help Tall Thimbleweed FAQ

Why is Anemone virginiana called tall thimbleweed?

The flower's central structure develops into a thimble-shaped seed head, which later elongates and becomes a cottony mass of wind-dispersed achenes. The plant is also called tall anemone. [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/anemone-virginiana/common-name/tall-anemone/)

How tall does tall thimbleweed grow, and where does it live?

Anemone virginiana commonly grows from about 1 to 4 feet tall in woodlands, forest edges, prairies, meadows, and fields. It is a perennial native to Canada and central and eastern parts of the United States. [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/anemone-virginiana/common-name/tall-anemone/)

When does tall thimbleweed flower and form its seed head?

The whitish flowers appear in late spring or early summer, usually singly above the foliage. By fall, the central thimble-like fruit becomes cottony and can remain decorative into winter. [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/anemone-virginiana/common-name/tall-anemone/)

What growing conditions suit tall thimbleweed?

It prefers moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil and partial sun, although it can tolerate full shade. The sap may irritate skin, so wearing gloves when handling or pruning the plant is sensible. [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/anemone-virginiana/common-name/tall-anemone/)

swap_horiz

Looking for Tall Thimbleweed alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward