Japanese Anemone: A Refreshing Fall Bloomer
This time of year, when heat-loving summer flowers are fading and many cool-weather bulbs are just starting to wake, it’s refreshing to see the Japanese anemone in full bloom.
A graceful plant with 1-foot, dark green, semi-hairy leaves and 2- to 4-foot high stems sporting semi-double flowers in white or pink, this hardy perennial blooms from September through November, although it looks good even when not in bloom.
“Though it’s not a commonly grown plant, Japanese anemone is a great addition to many gardens,” said Norm Yoder, co-owner of Friday House Gardens, an Orange nursery specializing in old-fashioned perennials, herbs and antique bulbs.
Some varieties commonly found in nurseries include:
- September Charm (pink)
- Pink
- Honorine Jobert (white)
Now is the time to plant Japanese anemones, which can be found in most nurseries in 1-gallon containers.
Planting Tips from Norm Yoder
- Plant in semi-shade: Japanese anemones prefer a spot protected from harsh sun. They thrive under deciduous trees that offer summer shade and allow more light in the cooler months. They also look great under high-branching trees or in front of tall shrubs.
- Consider eventual size: These perennials grow into a leafy clump about 2 feet across.
- Prepare the soil: Use homemade or bagged compost to amend soil. Ensure it is rich and well-draining. Improve drainage in slow-draining spots or choose another location.
- Try containers: Japanese anemones can be grown in containers. Replant 1-gallon nursery plants into 12- to 14-inch pots. Repot or divide the roots in spring when the plant becomes root-bound.
- Fertilize twice a year: Feed in fall and spring with slow-release chemical or organic fertilizer.
- Water regularly: Keep soil slightly moist, but not soggy. They are not drought-tolerant but don’t need excessive watering.
- Be patient: Japanese anemones are slow to establish but will thrive once settled. They are long-lived and bloom reliably each fall.
- Stimulate new growth: Remove dead leaves and cut spent flower spikes at the base.
- Propagate in spring: Divide roots into 1- or 2-inch clumps and replant. Expect blooms again by fall.
October Planting Guide
October is one of the best gardening months in Orange County. The weather is mild, making it the perfect time to transition from warm-season to cool-season crops. Here’s what you can plant this month:
Flowers (from seed or starter plants)
- Agapanthus
- Alyssum
- Bachelor’s Button
- Calendula
- California Poppy
- Campanula
- Canterbury Bell
- Carnation
- Chrysanthemum
- Dahlia
- Delphinium
- Dianthus
- English Primrose
- Felicia
- Foxglove
- Iceland Poppy
- Impatien
- Japanese Anemone
- Lantana
- Larkspur
- Lavender
- Michaelmas Daisy
- Nemesia
- Pansy
- Rudbeckia
- Scabiosa
- Scented Geranium
- Schizanthus
- Shasta Daisy
- Snapdragon
- Stock
- Sweet Pea
- Sweet William
- Viola
- Wildflowers
- Yarrow
Vegetables
- Artichoke
- Asparagus
- Beet
- Broccoli
- Brussels Sprouts
- Cabbage
- Carrot
- Cauliflower
- Celery
- Collards
- Endive
- Garlic
- Horseradish
- Kohlrabi
- Kale
- Leek
- Lettuce
- Mustard Greens
- Onion
- Parsnip
- Pea
- Radish
- Rhubarb
- Rutabaga
- Salsify
- Shallot
- Spinach
- Swiss Chard
- Turnip
Herbs
- Chamomile
- Chive
- Cilantro
- Comfrey
- Dill
- Feverfew
- Lavender
- Oregano
- Parsley
- Rosemary
- Thyme
* Researched by JULIE BAWDEN DAVIS / for The Times
