Anemones – Corms & Japanese Anemones

In Switzerland, poppy anemone corms are best planted in spring from March; Japanese anemones go in during spring or autumn. Anemones suit border edges and pots and make long-lasting cut flowers for the vase.

Buy anemones: poppy anemone, windflower or Japanese anemone

Very different plants are sold under the name anemone (windflower). The poppy anemone (Anemone coronaria) grows from small, hard corms and flowers in strong colours with a dark centre. Particularly popular are the Italian cut-flower varieties of the 'Mistral' series, such as 'Mistral Rosa Chiaro', 'Mistral Salmone' or the bicoloured 'Mistral Edge'. The 'Levante' series brings semi-double flowers, for example 'Levante Wine', 'Levante Fucsia' and 'Levante Rosso'.

The Grecian windflower (Anemone blanda) and the wood anemone (Anemone nemorosa) are small spring bloomers that are planted in autumn and naturalise beneath trees and shrubs. You will find these corms together under Anemone corms (windflowers). The Japanese anemone (Anemone hupehensis and hybrids), on the other hand, is a tall perennial that flowers from August to October; more on this under Buy Japanese anemones.

Planting time and position in Switzerland

Poppy anemones are only partly hardy in Switzerland. On the Swiss Plateau, plant the corms from March to April; at higher altitudes from the end of April, once hard frosts are no longer likely. They then flower roughly ten to twelve weeks later. In very mild areas, autumn planting under a thick layer of leaves is also possible. A sunny to partially shaded spot with loose, free-draining soil is ideal. Japanese anemones tolerate sun to partial shade and moist, humus-rich soil, while windflowers love the dappled shade beneath trees.

Planting and care

• Soak poppy anemone corms in lukewarm water for three to four hours before planting.
• Plant about 5 to 6 cm deep, roughly 10 cm apart; in pots they can sit a little closer.
• Keep evenly moist but avoid waterlogging, as the corms rot easily.
• After flowering, let the foliage die back. Lift poppy anemone corms before winter and store them dry and frost-free.

All anemones belong to the buttercup family and contain substances that can irritate skin and mucous membranes. It is best to wear gloves when planting and to keep the corms away from children and pets.

Combining and uses

Poppy anemones are excellent cut flowers: cut the stems just as the flowers are opening and they often last more than a week in the vase. In the border they go well with ranunculus, which have similar needs. Japanese anemones complement grasses, asters and hostas and provide food for bees late in the year.