Cylindrical Thimbleweed (Anemone Cylindrica)
Here, we will bring to light a relatively undiscussed plant in which we found in North-East Saskatchewan in August 2022: the cylindrical thimbleweed (Anemone cylindrica). This humble, yet tenacious plant boasts an intriguing history. In this blog post, we shall journey through the enthralling world of cylindrical thimbleweed, from its inception to its distinguishing features, and how it lends its splendor to the breathtaking beauty of the Canadian boreal.
The cylindrical thimbleweed, long-headed windflower, or Anemone cylindrica, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Ranunculaceae family. It has a native range that stretches across North America, particularly in the United States and Canada. In Canada, it is commonly found nestled in the boreal forests, thriving in an assortment of habitats, such as open woodlands, prairies, and meadows.
Distinctive Features
The cylindrical thimbleweed is an enthralling plant with several unique features. Its slender stems grow between 30 and 100 centimeters tall, and its leaves are primarily basal, with a smattering of alternate leaves present along the stem. The leaves are divided into three leaflets, which are further subdivided into lobes, bestowing the plant with a delicate and lacy appearance.
During the flowering season, typically spanning from June to August, cylindrical thimbleweed produces a solitary flower atop each stem. The flowers comprise five petal-like sepals, which are usually greenish-white, and a cluster of yellow stamens. As the plant matures, the flowers evolve into a cylindrical, thimble-shaped seed head, thus earning the name 'cylindrical thimbleweed'.
When the fruits (called achenes) ripen, they develop gray-white colored wooly styles which can be blown away in the wind.
Traditional Uses and Cultural Significance
Historically, diverse Indigenous peoples harnessed cylindrical thimbleweed for medicinal purposes. The roots were applied externally to treat wounds and burns, whereas the leaves were employed to alleviate pain and inflammation. However, due to the presence of toxic compounds, it is crucial to exercise caution if using this plant for medicinal purposes.
In addition to its medicinal uses, cylindrical thimbleweed has been revered for its singular beauty and charm. Its delicate flowers and captivating seed heads have frequently been integrated into floral arrangements, making it a cherished supplement to gardens and natural landscapes.