False Rue Anemone, also known by its scientific name Enemion biternatum, is a woodland perennial noted for its delicate white flowers with petals clustered around bright yellow stamens. Grown widely in wooded areas and along streams, the False Rue Anemone boasts thick colonies that provide excellent ground cover. Although its leaves go dormant in the summer, they reappear in the fall. The False Rue Anemone is highly resistant to heavy rain, which makes it a idealflower for wet climates.
Etymology
The genus name Enemion derives from the Greek words “haima” (blood) and “omos” (appearance). This refers to the plant’s red stems. The species name biternatum derives from the Latin words “bi” (two) and “terminus” (stems), referring to how the stems of the False Rue Anemone split into two.
Family and Plant type
False Rue Anemone belongs to the Ranunculaceae family, which consists of around 2500 species. These include flowers from the Ranunculus and Delphinium genera. False Rue Anemone is a perennial, meaning it lives for more than two years.
How to Plant and Grow
False Rue Anemone comes in a variety of different colors, including blue, white, yellow and pink. It prefers moist, semi-shaded areas with good soil drainage. While False Rue Anemones should be kept in part shade, they can adapt to any light level, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor potting. When watering, make sure not to overwater as False Rue Anemone is prone to root rot. Temperature should remain between 50-70°F (10-21°C). False Rue Anemone does not require fertilizer and should be pruned to keep the size in check.
Meaning and Symbology
False Rue Anemone has many symbolisms, including faithfulness, modesty, youth and sweetness. In ancient myth, the False Rue Anemone signifies the wounded heart of Eurydice and the joyous reunion of Orpheus. The brightly colored petals of the flower represented the fragility of love.
History, Mythology and Religious Significance
The False Rue Anemone is a native flower of North America. Historical use of the False Rue Anemone for medicines is prevalent. The False Rue Anemone was also used by Native American tribes and as a tattoo, protection from evil spirits, and a source of honey in times of scarcity. In some parts of Europe, it is believed that lighting a bonfire with False Rue Anemone grants wishes. In Christianity, the False Rue Anemone represents the worship of God and prayers for the holy family.
Flower Varieties and their Defining Characteristics
False Rue Anemone includes several varieties such Racemes Ranunculus, Wild Columbine, Giant Anemone and Anemone variabilis, among others. The following is a list of the defining characteristics of these varieties:
- Racemes Ranunculus: This variety has creamy petals with a tinge of maroon in the center and tall, slender stems that can reach up to 4 feet tall.
- Wild Columbine: this variety has five long petals in yellow and red with five shorter petals atop a stem that can reach up to 3 feet.
- Giant Anemone: This variety has a huge bloom up to 6 inches across with white, yellow or pink petals and usually only grows about two feet high.
- Anemone variablis: This variety has white petals with a red fringe and will grow up to 3 feet high.
How to Pot and Repot
Potting is important to False Rue Anemone plants to facilitate healthy growth. Using fresh potting soil, this plant can thrive in a container that is at least 10 inches in diameter and 8 inches deep. Do not bury it too deep because it will cause the root to rot. It’s ideal to have holes in the bottom of the pot for adequate drainage. False Rue Anemone is quite easy to repot, just be careful not to damage the root system while transferring it. Place the pot in a sunny windowsill or an area that gets plenty of indirect sunlight to ensure proper growth.
How to Prune
False Rue Anemone should be pruned once its flowers die away. Remove any dead or dying branches and cut away any diseased portions. Pruning should be done carefully to prevent damaging the root system. It is important to disinfect tools before pruning to avoid any transmission of disease between plants. Pruning should also be done in the late summer to encourage new growth for the next season.
How to Propagate
False Rue Anemone can be propagated from cuttings. Cut a stem from a mature plant in the early spring, before new growth begins. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in fresh potting soil. Water the potting soil regularly and cover it with a plastic bag to keep the humidity high. The cutting should begin to grow in three to four weeks. Transplanting the new plant once it is established is essential and should be done with care.
Common Pests and Diseases
False Rue Anemone is prone to damage from pests, such as aphids and slugs. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap. Diseased plants can be treated with fungicides. It is also important to remember to allow the soil to dry before watering again, as overwatering can lead to issues with root rot.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What kind of soil does False Rue Anemone like? False Rue Anemone prefers a moist soil with good drainage and a pH level between 6 and 7.
- When is the best time to transplant False Rue Anemone? The best time to transplant is in the spring before new growth begins.
- How long does False Rue Anemone take to mature? False Rue Anemone typically takes two to three years to fully mature.
Table Fact Sheet
Name: | False Rue Anemone, Enemion biternatum |
Family: | Ranunculaceae |
Plant Type: | Perennial |
Mature Size: | Reaches up to 4 feet tall |
Sun Exposure: | Part shade |
Soil Type: | Moist |
Soil pH: | 6.0 to 7.0 |
Bloom Time: | Spring |
Flower Color: | Infinite shades of creamy petals with a tinge of maroon in the center |
Hardiness Zones: | Zones 4-8 |
Native Area: | North America |
What we love from Amazon this week
Buy these wonderful flowers directly from Amazon: