Swiss Anemone
anemone baldensis
Also known as: ["Baldanemone","Swiss Wood Anemone"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to the Alps, known for its delicate, star-shaped flowers.
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 baldensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, woodland edges, or shaded garden beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining soil with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering; remove dead foliage in fall or winter.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on tidiness and deadheading.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun); protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; provide shade during peak heat; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid intense afternoon sun; rotate pot for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; avoid waterlogging.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); tolerates cold but prefers not to exceed 75°F (24°C).
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; stop in fall and winter; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or root cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes.
- Plant 2–3 inches deep.
- Water thoroughly.
- Provide indirect light.
Best Time: Early spring before new growth begins.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division.
Timeline
Roots may develop within 4–6 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, gloves, pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Divide only healthy rhizomes; ensure each division has roots and buds; avoid overwatering new plants.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip spent flowers just above a leaf node; cut back dead foliage at the base.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Deadhead spent blooms; remove yellowing or dead leaves; sanitize tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting; provide indirect light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback if exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; avoid frost exposure.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicAnemone baldensis is toxic to cats, with the primary toxin being protoanemonin, which induces severe gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity. Cats are particularly sensitive to plant toxins due to their limited ability to metabolize certain compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe toxic principles in Anemone baldensis, particularly protoanemonin, can cause significant gastrointestinal and systemic distress in dogs upon ingestion. The plant's compounds lead to irritation and inflammation of the digestive tract and other tissues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAnemone baldensis contains toxic compounds, primarily protoanemonin, which is released upon tissue damage and can cause severe irritation and systemic effects upon ingestion. The plant's effects are due to the disruption of cellular processes and inflammation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Anemone baldensis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Where is Anemone baldensis native to?
A: It is native to the Alps, particularly in Switzerland.
Q: Does Anemone baldensis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts 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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