Japanese Anemone Anemone × hybrida 'Pretty Lady Diana' (PBR) (Pretty Lady Series)

Water

Japanese anemones, including 'Pretty Lady Diana', should be watered deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water, which equates to roughly 0.6 gallons per square yard. During hot weather or in well-drained soils, the frequency may need to increase to twice a week to maintain consistent soil moisture. Ensure that the water is applied at ground level to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. During the winter or in periods of heavy rainfall, reduce watering to prevent waterlogging. Always check the soil moisture before watering to prevent overwatering, as Japanese anemones prefer well-drained yet moist soil.

Light

Japanese anemones, like 'Pretty Lady Diana', thrive in partial shade, although they can also handle full sun in cooler climates. To ensure the best growth, plant them in a location where they receive morning sun and afternoon shade. Avoid deep shade as it can lead to sparse flowering and a leggy growth habit. The ideal spot should provide protection from the harsh afternoon sun, especially in regions with hot summers.

Temperature

Japanese anemones such as 'Pretty Lady Diana' are hardy and fare best in temperate climates with temperatures that commonly range from 65°F to 75°F. They can survive winter temperatures as low as 5°F and summer highs up to 86°F, but prolonged exposure beyond these thresholds can stress the plant. A location with stable temperatures and good air circulation aids in preventing temperature extremes.

Pruning

Prune 'Pretty Lady Diana' Japanese anemones in late winter or early spring to remove dead leaves and spent stems, promoting healthy growth and airflow. Cut the plants back to about 4 inches above ground level. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, during the blooming period can encourage further flowering. Pruning is typically done annually, just before the onset of new growth.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Japanese Anemone 'Pretty Lady Diana' is well-draining, fertile soil enriched with organic matter like compost. The pH should be slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, ranging from 5.8 to 7.5.

Repotting

Japanese Anemone 'Pretty Lady Diana' is typically grown in garden beds rather than containers and does not require frequent repotting. If grown in pots, repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil.

Humidity & Misting

Japanese Anemone 'Pretty Lady Diana' prefers moderate humidity but is tolerant of the humidity levels typically found in garden settings without the need for special adjustments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Grow in bright, indirect light with moist, well-drained soil.

• Outdoor

  Plant in part shade, moist, fertile, well-drained soil.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

Anemone × hybrida 'Pretty Lady Diana', more commonly known as Windflower, begins its life as a seed, which upon germination in late winter or early spring grows into a small seedling. The seedling then develops into a mature plant with a clump-forming habit, featuring deeply lobed leaves and sturdy stems. In late summer to fall, the plant enters its flowering stage, where it produces charming pink blooms with yellow centers that attract pollinators. After the flowering period, the plant sets seed, and as temperatures drop in late fall, the Windflower enters dormancy, with above-ground growth dying back. During winter, the plant's roots and rhizomes survive underground, storing energy for the next growing season. With the return of warmer weather in spring, the cycle begins anew as the Windflower emerges from dormancy, ready to grow and bloom once more.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late spring

• The Japanese anemone 'Pretty Lady Diana' can be propagated most effectively in the spring or fall through division. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant and gently divide the clump into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a portion of the root system. These divided sections can then be replanted in well-drained soil, spaced approximately 18 inches (about 45 centimeters) apart to accommodate their growth. Water the new plantings thoroughly after transplanting to ensure they establish well in their new location. Division is a reliable method because it maintains the characteristics of the parent plant and allows for a quick increase in the number of plants.