Thimbleweed (Anemone cylindrica)
Anemone cylindrica, commonly known as Thimbleweed, is a native perennial wildflower found in prairies, open woodlands, and disturbed areas throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.
This plant features slender, dark green leaves and produces tall, cylindrical flower heads in late summer to early fall. The flowers are white to greenish-white, and the plant has distinctive, elongated seed heads that resemble a thimble or bottlebrush, which persist well into the fall. The plant typically reaches a height of 2 to 4 feet and adds vertical interest to gardens and landscapes.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Anemone cylindrica is an excellent choice for prairie restorations, wildflower gardens, and naturalized landscapes. It provides seasonal interest with its unique flowers and seed heads and supports pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant can also be a great addition to native meadow plantings, offering beauty and ecological value.
Anemone cylindrica, commonly known as Thimbleweed, is a native perennial wildflower found in prairies, open woodlands, and disturbed areas throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.
This plant features slender, dark green leaves and produces tall, cylindrical flower heads in late summer to early fall. The flowers are white to greenish-white, and the plant has distinctive, elongated seed heads that resemble a thimble or bottlebrush, which persist well into the fall. The plant typically reaches a height of 2 to 4 feet and adds vertical interest to gardens and landscapes.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Anemone cylindrica is an excellent choice for prairie restorations, wildflower gardens, and naturalized landscapes. It provides seasonal interest with its unique flowers and seed heads and supports pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant can also be a great addition to native meadow plantings, offering beauty and ecological value.
Anemone cylindrica, commonly known as Thimbleweed, is a native perennial wildflower found in prairies, open woodlands, and disturbed areas throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.
This plant features slender, dark green leaves and produces tall, cylindrical flower heads in late summer to early fall. The flowers are white to greenish-white, and the plant has distinctive, elongated seed heads that resemble a thimble or bottlebrush, which persist well into the fall. The plant typically reaches a height of 2 to 4 feet and adds vertical interest to gardens and landscapes.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Anemone cylindrica is an excellent choice for prairie restorations, wildflower gardens, and naturalized landscapes. It provides seasonal interest with its unique flowers and seed heads and supports pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant can also be a great addition to native meadow plantings, offering beauty and ecological value.
Bloom: early to mid-summer
Habitats: abandoned fields; dry upland areas of black soil prairies; limestone glades; loess hill prairies; open areas along roadsides; open sandy woodlands; sandy Black Oak savannas; scrubby barrens
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: mesic to dry
Plant type (height): forb (1 to 2 feet)
Requirements: full sun to partial sun
Soil: rather gritty or sandy