Wood Anemone (Anemone Nemorosa)

Date added: 05/04/2022 17:43:20
Author: Joan Stacey

Also known as Windflower, this woodland delight is flowering in the North West corner of the Cemetery. It prefers to grow in dappled shade in ancient woodlands with non-acidic soils.

A member of the Buttercup Family, it is a low growing plant with each flower having 6 or 7 large ‘petals’ ,which are actually white sepals, surrounding a cluster of distinctive yellow anthers.

The plant spreads mainly via its roots as its seeds are usually infertile. The name Windflower is derived from the Greek god, Anemos (meaning ‘wind’) who sent them in early Spring to herald his coming. It is thought to symbolise protection against ill will and evil and can be used in remembrance of loved ones; hence it was often planted in Cemeteries, however, in some Eastern cultures it is associated with bad luck.

All anemones are toxic to humans, dogs and other animals causing irritation of mucous membranes and blistering with the possibility of tremors and even seizures. Look at them and love them, but leave them alone.

While human-folk slumber,
The fairies espy
Stars without number
Sprinkling the sky.

The Winter’s long sleeping,
Like night-time, is done;
But day-stars are leaping
To welcome the sun.

Star-like they sprinkle
The wildwood with light;
Countless they twinkle,
The Windflowers white!

© FNRC