Species windflower
A cluster of small green seed heads on tall green stems.

windflower

Anemone cylindrica

Also Known As - Prairie Thimbleweed,Long Fruited Anemone,Long Headed Thimbleweed,Long Fruited Anemone,Long Headed Thimbleweed
Windflower (Anemone cylindrica) is a stunning plant native to North America, Europe, and Asia. It has a unique flower-like form with delicate lobed petals that look like they are dancing in the wind. The Windflower blooms during spring or summer with an intense white hue and green stem, making it an absolutely beautiful addition to any garden. The flower also has a distinct scent which is said to be reminiscent of the ocean, creating a wonderful aroma in the air. The Windflower is a hardy plant and can take full sun or part shade, so anyone can grow one regardless of their climate. Not only is it beautiful but it's also a perfect way to attract pollinators, making your garden even more spectacular.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 7

Flowers:

Greenish-white Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part sun/part shade

Soil:

Sandy Loamy Rocky

Fruits:

blue,purple Fruits Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

bronze,green,red,purple

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Windflowers should be watered about 1-2 times a week. Make sure to water the soil until it is damp, but not soaking wet. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this species is prone to root rot. During the summer months when temperatures are higher, you may need to water your windflower more frequently. During the cooler months, you can reduce waterings to once a week.

sunlight

Windflower needs at least 5 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Ideally, the sun’s rays should strike its blooms directly in the early morning and early evening before setting in the west, as this will produce the most vibrant flowers. If the plant gets too much or too little sun, the blooms may become faded or wilted. Too much sun exposure may also cause leaf scorch. To protect windflower from the sun’s strong rays, avoid planting it in areas exposed to noon sun. Instead, find a spot with dappled shade or afternoon sun to ensure the plants get the bright morning sunshine but are shaded from the intense rays at midday.

pruning

Windflower (Anemone cylindrica) does best when it receives an annual pruning. It should be pruned back each spring, just before it begins to bud. Start pruning when the stems reach 10-12 inches in height. Pruning should be done by removing the top 1/3 of the stems and by trimming off any dead or dying foliage. This will also help to encourage new, healthy growth and will also keep the plant in a more compact form. Pruning will also help keep the plant from becoming overgrown. If your Windflower becomes overgrown or untidy, prune it back more severely in early spring to rejuvenate it.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Anemone cylindrica typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Anemone cylindrica typically begins in late spring, usually in May or June.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Anemone cylindrica typically begins in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map

FAQ

Is the wind flower hardy plant?

Yes, the wind flower is a hardy plant that is known for its ability to withstand extreme weather conditions. It can be found growing in areas with low temperatures, high winds, and periods of drought. It is also a tough plant that is tolerant of abuse from people and animals. With adequate amounts of sun and water, the wind flower can thrive in any landscape.

Can windflower tolerate wild drought?

Yes, windflowers (Anemone acutiloba) are quite tolerant of drought conditions. The plant's root system is quite deep, enabling it to reach down to water sources even during long periods of little or no rainfall. Not only is it tolerant of drought, but windflower is also highly resistant to most pests and disease. It is often referred to as a “tough beauty” for its ability to withstand harsh climates as well as its bold and lush appearance.

Are windflowers easy to grow from seed?

Yes, windflowers, or Anemone blanda, are relatively easy to grow from seed. They are native to grassland habitats in Europe and the Mediterranean, which makes them accustomed to growing in well-drained, lightly-fertilized soils. It is often recommended to sow windflower seeds directly onto the soil, where they should be kept moist in warmer climates. They are a relatively low-maintenance plant, requiring little water and light pruning, and they can make spectacular additions to any garden.

Could windflowers be grown in containers?

Yes, windflowers can be grown in containers. Planting the seeds indoors in a sunny spot and then transplanting your windflowers to containers once the seedlings are about 3 inches tall is a great way to get your container windflower garden started. Windflowers do best when grown in well-drained soil and should be watered regularly. Fertilize and trim your container windflowers as needed, taking care to deadhead them regularly so they will keep producing blooms throughout the season. To protect your windflowers in the winter, either move the container indoors or invest in a winter heating blanket. With proper care, your container windflower garden can flourish year-round.

Can windflowers be used as cut flowers?

Yes, windflowers can be used as cut flowers. They have delicate five-petaled crepe-textured flowers in shades of white, pink, or purple. While they are mostly grown as a potted plant, they can be cut and used as a suitable option for flower bouquets and other decorations. Windflowers will make more of an impact when you group them together with other blooming elements.

How long do windflowers typically bloom?

Windflowers, also known as Anemones, typically bloom from late spring to early summer, last around 4 to 6 weeks. The exact time of bloom may vary depending on weather conditions, but will usually last from mid-April to mid-June. Some varieties may also flower for a second time in late summer or even into the autumn months.

Do windflowers have a strong fragrant?

Windflowers (Anemone blanda) are not known for their fragrant. They are small flowers, with a bell-shaped bloom which typically come in shades of blue, pink, white, and purples. Although windflowers aren't known for a strong scent, it has been said that when grown in groups windflowers can give off a pleasant smell with a hint of citrus. They are charming flowers that look beautiful when grown in the garden and are lovely to admire, however, if you are looking for a strongly fragrant flower, a windflower is not ideal.

Should windflowers be planted in the fall or spring?

Windflowers should be planted in the spring. While they may be able to survive if planted in the fall, they will experience much better growth and hardiness in the spring months when temperatures are warmer and soil is easier to work with. Since windflowers are typically hardy, they can be planted in spring as early as the last frost date, which allows them to take advantage of the spring rains which will help them to become established without having to be heavily watered by hand.