Plant Of The Month - September - Japanese Anemones

Japanese Anemones – full of Eastern Promise

The elegant Japanese Anemone ( Anemone hupehensis and A. x hybrida) always seems so delicate near the back of the herbaceous border, with pretty pink to white flowers held upon wiry stems. But this late bloomer is really as tough as old boots, making large clumps to enliven the Autumn gardens. Its strong stems need little if any support, often reaching over 1.5m high.


It’s name, ‘Anemone hupehensis’ actually refers to the fact that it is originally a native of the Hupeh province in China! However, it was introduced to Europe 170 years ago from Japan, where it had become established, hence its common name.

One of the best forms is a hybrid called ‘Honorine Jobert’. The purest white flowers have rounded petals and golden stamens, and will light up a shady spot. As with other Japanese Anemones, it will send up a succession of blooms for around 3 months from July – amazing value! ‘Queen Charlotte’ is soft pink, and has an extra layer of petals, giving a ruffled effect to the flowers. This lovely selection will reach 1m, making a sizeable clump when established.

‘Hadspen Abundance’ is a personal favourite with dark reddish pink outer sepals which contrast well with the golden yellow centre.

The unusual ‘Whirlwind’ has semi double often twisted white flowers which are tinged with green, making it very striking, well worth looking out for.

They combine in the herbaceous border with the lovely lady’s mantle, ‘Alchemilla Mollis’ with its soft green architectural foliage and its limey flowers. ‘Sedums’ and dark leaved Dahlia’ make a striking contrast well into the Autumn and ornamental grasses like ‘Miscanthus’ and ‘ Pennisetum’ also make a stunning combination, to be fair there are endless possible combinations.

Plant in full sun or partial shade in a humus rich free draining soil and mulch with leaf mould or garden compost in Spring.