In late summer and early autumn, Japanese anemone will put on a spectacular show. A perfect plant for September.
Japanese anemone is sometimes known as the Windflower, or ‘daughter of the wind’. It is said that the wind helps the flowers to open up, and then blows away the petals after flowering finishes.
Why should I plant Japanese anemone?
Japanese anemone are herbaceous perennials that bloom in late summer and autumn. They produce masses of delicate pink and white flowers. They are great for lighting up a dark corner of the garden.
The plants often spread by themselves, creating new clumps which can be lifted and planted elsewhere in the garden. This also saves you having to lift and divide the parent.
Where to plant them
Plant it in well-drained, humus-rich soil in full sun or partial shade.
Add organic matter like garden compost or well-rotted manure to the soil to prevent waterlogging. This will add air and retain moisture in the summer, but drain well in winter.
Once flowering is done, deadhead and cut back the flowers. Then, in March, tidy up any dead leaves and foliage.
Propagating Japanese anemones
In early spring or autumn the clumps can be divided. If you’re dividing in autumn, you can also take root cuttings to propagate. Find out more about taking root cuttings in this blog.
Types to try
‘Honorine Jobert’
This is a classic contender, with white single flowers that will bright up a herbaceous border. The yellow stamens contrast beautifully with the white petals in many garden styles. Cut back in late autumn to keep them looking their best.
- Flowers in summer
- Fully hardy
- Grows up to 1.5m tall
- Moist but well-drained soil
- Full sun or partial shade
- Exposed or sheltered
‘Pretty Lady Emily’
The vibrant pink flowers add cheer with the contrasting yellow stamens. They’re fully hardy and tolerant of many garden conditions except extremely wet soil. They look fantastic in coastal gardens as well as cottage style spaces.
- Flowers in summer and autumn
- Fully hardy
- Grows up to 1.5m tall
- Moist but well-drained soil
- Full sun or partial shade
- Exposed or sheltered
‘September Charm’
For late summer and autumn colour, look no further than this delicate looking rosy-pink variety. The cup shape flowers and colour and form to your borders. The tall, wiry stems grow up to 1m tall, tinted purple for added interest.
- Flowers in summer and autumn
- Fully hardy
- Grows up to 1m tall
- Moist but well-drained soil
- Full sun or partial shade
- Exposed or sheltered
Adding Japanese anemone to your late summer and autumn garden is a great way of bringing a boost of colour. They’re tolerant of many conditions, making them a perfect contender for your borders.
David Domoney is a Chartered Horticulturalist, Broadcaster, and Author. David has worked with a number of the UK’s leading garden retailers as a plant buyer and strategic consultant. With more than 30 years experience, in horticulture, David is as passionate about plants now as he was when he bought his first plant at a village fete.
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