Long-headed Anemone

Thimbleweed

Anemone cylindrica

A distinctive native wildflower known for its upright stems and elongated, thimble-shaped seed heads. In early to mid summer, small greenish-white flowers appear above finely divided foliage. As the flowers mature, they transform into long cylindrical seed clusters that give the plant its name and create striking texture in meadow plantings.

These unique seed heads persist well into late summer and fall, adding visual interest and movement to natural landscapes.

A Unique Prairie and Meadow Wildflower

Thimbleweed grows in loose clumps with graceful stems that rise above its deeply cut leaves. While the flowers are subtle, they provide nectar and pollen for a variety of native pollinating insects.

Later in the season, the prominent seed heads become a defining feature of the plant, contributing to natural seed dispersal and wildlife habitat.

A Plant of Prairies and Open Meadows

Thimbleweed grows naturally in prairies, dry meadows, open woods, and rocky slopes. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, making it well suited for prairie restorations, meadow plantings, and naturalized landscapes.

Its upright structure and distinctive seed heads add diversity and texture to native plant communities.

Growing Information

Height: 2–3 ft

Spread: 1–2 ft

Light: Full sun to part sun

Soil: Dry to average, well-drained soils

Hardiness: Zone 3–8

Growth Rate: Moderate

Best planted in prairie gardens, meadow plantings, and naturalized landscapes.

Ecological Importance

Thimbleweed:

Provides nectar and pollen for native bees and pollinating insects

Adds structural diversity to prairie and meadow habitats

Produces distinctive seed heads that contribute to natural regeneration

Supports biodiversity in native plant ecosystems

Associated Prairie & Meadow Species

Common companions in natural prairie plant communities include:

• Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa)
• Field Pussytoes (Antennaria neglecta)
• Prairie Smoke (Geum triflorum)
• Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium)
• Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
• Smooth Blue Aster (Symphyotrichum laeve)
• Purple Prairie Clover (Dalea purpurea)

Planting these species together helps recreate resilient prairie ecosystems that support pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects.

Planting to Protect
Restoring to Thrive ?
Origin Native Plants ?

3.5 inch Pots ?