Common Name:
Japanese Anenome
Description:
A spreading clump forming perennial that forms a base of deep green foliage. From summer to autumn they have tall flower spikes with clusters of stunning flowers at the end. Although they are native to China they have been naturalised in Japan for 100’s of years hence the common name.
Flower:
6cm wide flowers with overlapping pink petals. Yellow stamens surround a green central cone.
Size:
Flower stems grow up to 1m in height. The rhizomes spread forming a colony of foliage.
Growing Conditions:
- Plant in a semi-shady to shady position.
- They prefer a moist well worked soil but can grow in almost any soil condition.
- Can suffer from drying out and also being over watered.
Care:
- Little care is required if planted in the right spot. When they have finished you need to cut them back to ground level. Put a layer of straw or mulch over the crowns to protect from winter frosts.
- Can be affected by powdery mildew but a suitable fungicide can be applied if a problem.
Uses:
A useful addition to the flower garden and makes a neat picked flower. A great choice for under planting trees and shrubs or to fill out a shady corner or spot. Team up with other shade lovers for a neat combination.
They spread by runners or suckers and can colonise an area. They could be considered weedy in some circumstances but you can just dig up the unwanted growth to keep under control. They are long-lived, care free and their spreading habit makes for a great filler in difficult areas.
Comment:
This is a durable and beautiful plant that provides stunning colour for little care. Combine with Hostas, Helleborus and Hemerocallis for a colourful combination. Contrasts well with ferns and other natives like Dianella nigra and looks great against spiky plants such as Dietes grandiflora or Libertia formosa.
Continue to Anenome 'White' or back to perennials.