Japanese Anemone Anemone × hybrida 'Andrea Atkinson'
ABOUT
The Anemone × hybrida 'Andrea Atkinson' is a perennial plant known for its striking flowers and foliage. It blooms with elegant white flowers that have a slightly cupped shape, each petal soft to the touch, often with a hint of pink on the reverse, which adds a delicate blush tone to the overall appearance. The flowers typically feature a central cluster of bright yellow stamens that create a bold contrast with the white petals, giving the blossom a daisy-like look that is quite eye-catching. The foliage of 'Andrea Atkinson' is also noteworthy, comprising deeply lobed leaves that are dark green in color, providing a lush backdrop for the bright blooms. These leaves are sometimes slightly hairy and have a somewhat serrated edge, giving the plant an interesting texture both visually and to the touch. The plant spreads graciously in the garden, with its leaves and flowers borne on slender, yet sturdy stems. Often used as a border plant, 'Andrea Atkinson' adds a layer of elegance to any garden setting. The white flowers not only provide a sense of peace and tranquility but also attract beneficial pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, which actively contribute to the health of the garden ecosystem. This particular variety of anemone provides an extended period of interest, typically from late summer into fall, when many other plants have finished their flowering season.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Hybrid Anemone, Windflower, Japanese Anemone, Andrea Atkinson Anemone
Common names
Anemone × hybrida 'Andrea Atkinson'
ToxicityTo humans
The Anemone, also known as windflower, may have toxic properties. All parts of the plant contain protoanemonin, which can be poisonous to humans if ingested. Eating any part of the Anemone can lead to gastrointestinal distress, including symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. In some cases, skin contact with the sap can cause irritation or a rash. Care should be taken to avoid ingesting any part of the Anemone plant.
To pets
Anemones can be toxic to pets, including dogs and cats, if ingested. Similar to their effects on humans, all parts of the plant contain protoanemonin, which is an irritant substance. If a pet ingests Anemone, it might exhibit symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Severe cases could lead to more serious complications such as respiratory issues or seizures. It is important to keep Anemones out of reach of pets to avoid poisoning.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
3-4 feet (0.91-1.22 meters)
Spread
1-1.5 feet (0.3-0.46 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Blooms: Anemone 'Andrea Atkinson' features elegant white flowers that add beauty to any garden setting.
- Seasonal Interest: Blooms in late summer to autumn, offering color and interest when many other plants are starting to decline.
- Pollinator Friendly: The flowers attract bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care, making it a good choice for gardeners of all levels.
- Drought Tolerance: It has good resistance to short periods of drought, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Cold Hardy: It is capable of withstanding cold temperatures, making it suitable for a variety of climates.
- Adaptable: Can thrive in a range of soil types, though it prefers well-drained soil.
- Deer Resistant: Tends to be avoided by deer, which helps prevent damage to the plant in areas where deer are prevalent.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Anemone 'Andrea Atkinson' can be used in crafting as the petals make delicate accents for pressed flower artwork.
- These flowers can be a natural dye source, providing subtle shades for fabrics or papers.
- In a sensory garden, the plant adds texture and a soft rustling sound when the wind blows through the leaves.
- The long stems can be incorporated into wreaths and other floral displays for their elegant shape and movement.
- Anemone 'Andrea Atkinson' can serve as a photography subject for artists who specialize in botanical and nature photography due to its distinct beauty.
- Gardeners might use the structure of the plant as a natural trellis for supporting other smaller climbers and vines.
- Their blooms can be utilized as natural confetti at eco-friendly events like outdoor weddings.
- Used in educational settings, they can help in teaching botany and the life cycle of perennial plants in temperate climates.
- These plants can be arranged in intricate patterns to create living art or a horticultural display in public or private gardens.
- Anemone 'Andrea Atkinson' can provide a backdrop in macro photography, allowing for the study of insects that interact with the plant.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Japanese Anemone is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Japanese Anemone is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection against evil – Anemones, additionally known as windflowers, have long been associated with protection from evil and ill wishes in ancient folklore.
- Anticipation and expectation – Derived from the Greek word "anemos" which means wind, anemones are thought to symbolize the anticipation of the wind and changes it brings, signaling new beginnings or events.
- Forbidden love – In the Victorian language of flowers, giving an anemone could imply a love that is forbidden or not openly reciprocated.
- Fading hope and a feeling of being forsaken – Anemones sometimes represent a sense of loss or the fading hope of being with a loved one, perhaps because the flowers can close at night or during rainy weather, suggesting a sense of temporary absence.
- Remembrance – Anemones also signify remembrance, which is why they are often seen in memorial settings or events that honor past events or people.
WaterFor the Japanese Anemone 'Andrea Atkinson', it is important to maintain consistent moisture, especially during the summer months. Water deeply once a week, providing about 1 gallon of water per plant, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the spring and fall, reduce watering to when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which may be approximately every 10 days, depending on the weather conditions. In the winter, watering can be further reduced, as the plant requires less moisture during its dormant period.
LightJapanese Anemones like 'Andrea Atkinson' prefer partial shade, though they can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. The ideal spot for these plants is one that receives morning sunlight and is shaded during the hottest part of the afternoon. Dappled sunlight beneath trees can also work well, protecting the plant from intense midday rays.
TemperatureJapanese Anemones, including 'Andrea Atkinson', thrive in temperatures ranging from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can handle minimum temperatures down to around 30 degrees Fahrenheit and maximum temperatures up to about 86 degrees Fahrenheit. However, they perform best when they are kept away from extreme heat, which can stress the plant.
PruningPrune your Japanese Anemone 'Andrea Atkinson' in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back the old foliage to the ground to make room for fresh growth. Pruning encourages healthier plants and can help prevent disease by improving air circulation. Deadheading spent flowers during the blooming season can also promote a second flush of blooms.
CleaningAs needed
SoilJapanese Anemone 'Andrea Atkinson' thrives in well-draining, humus-rich soil with a pH of 5.6 to 7.5. A good mix would include garden loam, leaf mold or compost, and a portion of perlite or grit for drainage.
RepottingJapanese Anemone 'Andrea Atkinson' is generally repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil or when it has outgrown its current pot.
Humidity & MistingJapanese Anemone 'Andrea Atkinson' prefers average to high humidity but is quite adaptable to different humidity levels as long as it's not in an arid environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with cool temps and ample air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, enrich soil with organic matter, mulch, and water regularly.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Anemone × hybrida 'Andrea Atkinson', commonly known as the Andrea Atkinson Windflower, begins its life cycle as a dormant root or rhizome planted in late fall or spring. After planting, the rhizome sprouts into a clump of foliage in early spring as temperatures rise. During late summer to fall, the plant produces tall stems topped with white, sometimes pink-tinged flowers that attract pollinators. After blooming, the flowers wither and seeds may develop, which can drop and potentially germinate to produce new plants. The foliage dies back as winter approaches, and the plant enters a period of dormancy. With the return of spring, the cycle repeats as the plant regrows from the surviving rootstock or new seedlings.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
The Anemone × hybrida 'Andrea Atkinson', commonly known as the Japanese anemone, is typically propagated through division, which is the most popular method for this perennial plant. The best time to divide Japanese anemones is in the spring or fall when the plant is not in active bloom. To propagate by division, you'll want to gently dig up the plant and separate the clumps into smaller sections, ensuring each new piece has at least one growth point or shoot. These divisions should be replanted at the same depth they were growing at originally, spaced about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow enough room for growth. Water the new divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This method allows gardeners to quickly increase their stock of plants and can rejuvenate older clumps that have become less vigorous.
