Japanese anemone
anemone hupehensis
Also known as: ["Chinese anemone","windflower"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with daisy-like flowers in shades of pink or white, native to China.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Anemone |
| Botanical Name: | Anemone hupehensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed with partial shade, protected from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; remove dead or damaged stems as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless dividing the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun); protect from harsh afternoon sun, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun; avoid sudden exposure to intense light; provide shade during peak summer heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; use shade cloth if needed; rotate pots for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to reduce fungal issues; ensure good drainage.
Soil
moist, well-draining, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F); tolerates light frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
monthly during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize lightly after flowering; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Division or stem cuttings; division is the most reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps into sections with roots.
- Cut stems just below a node.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Early spring or late autumn when the plant is dormant or just beginning growth.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with perlite or sand; can also use peat moss for stem cuttings.
Hormone
Optional, but recommended for stem cuttings to encourage root development.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; stem cuttings: roots in 4–6 weeks, flowering in 1–2 years.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, pruners, rooting hormone (optional), pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor; use clean tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings humid.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead by cutting just above a leaf node; cut back stems to the base if necessary.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; cut back foliage after flowering to tidy the plant.
Tools
Pruners, gloves, clean cutting tools.
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; cut at a 45-degree angle; remove only dead or spent parts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; replant in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; best for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose a new pot; prepare fresh soil; trim roots; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; continue until water drains from the bottom.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or premature flowering in extreme heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth or cause leaf damage; prolonged freezing may damage roots.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from harsh winds; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, flower drop, and reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water before and after; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer/autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are sensitive to the toxic compounds in Anemone hupehensis, particularly protoanemonin, which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and irritation. The plant's toxicity can lead to significant health issues if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Anemone hupehensis can lead to gastrointestinal upset and irritation due to the presence of protoanemonin. The compound can cause significant discomfort and potential systemic effects if consumed in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAnemone hupehensis contains toxic compounds, primarily protoanemonin, which can cause irritation and inflammation upon ingestion. The plant's effects are due to the disruption of cellular processes and potential organ damage.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Japanese anemones?
A: They can be propagated by division in early spring or by seed in autumn.
Q: Why are my Japanese anemone leaves turning yellow?
A: Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies.
Q: Do Japanese anemones attract wildlife?
A: Yes, they are known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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