Thimbleweed

Anemone virginiana

Thimbleweed is named for the thimble-shaped seed heads that follow the spring flowers -- woolly white puffs on upright stems that persist through fall and winter, looking like small wool pompoms scattered through the garden. The flowers themselves are simple white cups in May and June, single and clean against the divided foliage. Both the bloom and the seed heads are quietly beautiful in different seasons. It grows in dry open woods and rocky sites, making it one of the more adaptable native wildflowers for partial shade in average to dry soil. Established plants spread slowly and live for decades. The seed heads are irresistible -- children, photographers, and plant lovers all reach for them. A slow builder but a permanent addition once established.