With its delicate, airy blooms that sway gracefully in the breeze, it’s no wonder this species is commonly known as the Japanese windflower. Despite originating in China, Anemone hupehensis (named after Hubei province) gained popularity in Japan, where it now grows in the wild. From late summer through autumn, it produces elegant pink or white, poppy-like flowers on tall, slender stems, complemented by a base of broad, evergreen foliage.
Growing Conditions:
Japanese windflowers thrive in a semi-shaded position with organically rich, well-draining soil. A protective layer of mulch helps retain moisture and support healthy growth. At maturity, their stems reach approximately 1 meter in height, while the base spreads to around 60 centimetres.
Care & Maintenance:
To help Anemone hupehensis establish, enrich the soil with manure and apply a generous layer of mulch. Once mature, this hardy species is both drought- and frost-tolerant, requiring additional summer watering and fertilisation to encourage an abundant display of flowers. Deadheading spent blooms will promote additional flowering, while in winter, cutting back the stems to ground level ensures vigorous regrowth in the following season.
In a garden:
Japanese anemones create a stunning display when mass-planted in naturalistic drifts, mimicking their wild growth habit. They complement meadow and cottage-style gardens beautifully, weaving among other flowering perennials. Their delicate blooms also make wonderful additions to informal, garden-picked bouquets.