Anemone blanda
winter windflower
- Position: full sun or partial shade
- Soil: well-drained, humus-rich soil
- Rate of growth: fast
- Flowering period: March to April
- Hardiness: fully hardy
- Garden care: Pot-grown anemones will have been potted on in autumn, so while they may be showing some signs of top growth (depending upon what time of the year you buy them), they are unlikely to show any significant root growth. These potted plants can be enjoyed as they are while they bloom, but as the flowers fade, they should either be potted up or planted out in the garden. Avoid planting in soils that remain heavy and wet in winter and leave them undisturbed so they can spread to form large drifts. Apply a generous layer of mulch in autumn.
From March to April, intense blue daisy-like flowers appear, set above delicate ferny foliage. These gorgeous little winter windflowers are perfect for naturalising in a mixed border, at the edge of a woodland area, or around the base of deciduous shrubs, where they shine out like jewels. For maximum impact plant in bold drifts, and if possible, team it with summer flowering perennials that will mask the foliage, which dies back soon after the flowers fade. A stunning little plant that lifts the spirits in spring.