Japanese Anemone Anemone × hybrida 'Robustissima'
ABOUT
The Hybrid Anemone 'Robustissima' is known for its graceful appeal and is often admired for its distinctive flowers and foliage. This plant features cup-shaped, soft pink flowers that give a gentle and soothing appearance to any garden setting. The blooms typically have a darker pink hue at their base, which fades to a pale pink or almost white at the edges of the petals. In the center of the flowers, there is a cluster of prominent yellow stamens, which adds a striking contrast to the otherwise pastel tones of the bloom. The foliage of the Hybrid Anemone 'Robustissima' is equally as attractive as its flowers. The leaves are deep green and divided into three distinct, lobed leaflets, which may be toothed or slightly irregular at the edges, imparting a somewhat textured and layered look to the plant's overall greenery. The leaves radiate out from the base of the plant, creating a dense and lush appearance. Furthermore, the stems of this plant are sturdy, supporting the blooms so that they stand out prominently against the green backdrop. The overall visual effect of the Hybrid Anemone 'Robustissima' is one of delicate beauty, with a harmonious blend of form, color, and texture that makes it a delightful addition to gardens and landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Japanese Anemone, Hybrid Anemone, Windflower
Common names
Anemone × hybrida 'Robustissima'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Japanese anemone is considered to be slightly toxic to humans if ingested. This toxicity is primarily due to the presence of protoanemonin, a compound found in the sap. If parts of the plant are ingested, it can cause mild mouth irritation, gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and diarrhea. Handling the plant may also cause skin irritation in some individuals. It is advisable to wear gloves when working with Japanese anemones, wash hands thoroughly after handling, and to refrain from ingesting any part of the plant.
To pets
Japanese anemones are also toxic to pets if ingested. Similar to humans, the toxicity is due to protoanemonin in the sap. Symptoms of poisoning in pets may include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and possibly mouth or throat irritation. In severe cases, ingestion could lead to dehydration, lethargy, or difficulty breathing. It's important to keep pets away from Japanese anemones and seek veterinary care if you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Spread
1.5-2 feet (0.45-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Anemone x hybrida 'Robustissima' attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, promoting biodiversity.
- Low maintenance: It is relatively easy to care for and does not require much attention once established.
- Tolerates a range of soils: This plant can thrive in various soil types, although it prefers well-drained soil.
- Provides autumn color: The plant blooms in late summer to fall, adding color to the garden when many other flowers have faded.
- Resistant to pests: It is not particularly prone to pests or diseases, which reduces the need for chemical treatments.
- Deer resistant: It is less likely to be eaten by deer, making it a good choice for gardens in areas with deer populations.
- Cultural Significance: Japanese anemone holds aesthetic and cultural value in certain regions, adding symbolic meaning to gardens.
- Multipurpose use: The plant's cut flowers are excellent for bouquets, while the spent blooms and foliage provide winter interest.
- Can be used in various garden designs: It fits well in cottage gardens, borders, woodland gardens, and in mass plantings for a more dramatic effect.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Anemone 'Robustissima' can be used in cut flower arrangements to add a touch of wild elegance with their pastel hues and delicate petals.
- The plant's dried seed heads can be utilized in dried flower crafts for their intricate and interesting textures.
- As a teaching tool, Anemone 'Robustissima' can assist in educating individuals about pollinator-friendly gardens due to its attractiveness to bees and butterflies.
- The foliage of the Anemone 'Robustissima' offers a lush green background in garden photography and can enhance the composition of nature photos.
- These plants can be used to create naturalistic garden designs, mimicking the undergrowth layer in forested areas.
- Anemone 'Robustissima' serves as a companion plant in the garden, helping to indicate the health of the soil based on its vigor and bloom.
- It can be planted in containers on patios or balconies where its hardiness and low maintenance make it suitable for urban gardening.
- The fibrous root system of Anemone 'Robustissima' is useful for soil stabilization on slight slopes within gardens or park settings.
- They can also be used in sensory gardens for their soft petals and the gentle rustling sound their leaves make in the breeze.
- Anemone 'Robustissima' can be part of a themed garden, such as a "moon garden," with flowers that remain open in the evening or reflect moonlight.
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- Anticipation - Anemones often symbolize anticipation due to their behavior of closing at night and opening up in the morning, indicating the expectation of something new each day.
- Fragility - The delicate structure of the Anemone makes it a symbol for fragility and the ephemeral nature of life.
- Forsaken Love - In the language of flowers, Anemones can represent a sense of feeling forsaken or a love that is fading away, as they can also wilt quickly.
- Protection Against Evil - In some cultures, Anemones are believed to ward off evil spirits and bad luck, potentially due to the myth of Adonis from which the flower is said to have sprung.
WaterThe Grapeleaf Anemone should be watered thoroughly, ensuring that the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. It's generally best to water this perennial deeply once a week, depending on the climate and soil type, with approximately 1 gallon of water per week. During hot or dry periods, you may need to water more frequently to maintain consistent soil moisture. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to disease. Reduce watering in the fall as the plant prepares for dormancy, and also if rainfall provides adequate moisture.
LightThe Grapeleaf Anemone thrives in a spot that receives full sun to partial shade. The ideal location would allow for morning sunlight with some afternoon shade, or dappled light throughout the day. Avoid planting in deep shade, as this can reduce flowering and lead to leggy growth.
TemperatureGrapeleaf Anemones prefer temperate conditions and can withstand temperatures as low as 20°F and as high as 85°F. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 75°F. While it can survive a short period of higher or lower temperatures, prolonged exposure to extremes can damage the plant.
PruningPruning the Grapeleaf Anemone usually involves deadheading spent flowers to encourage additional blooms and cutting back the plant once it has died back after frost to keep it tidy. It's best to prune in late fall or early spring. Occasional removal of damaged or diseased stems throughout the growing season can also promote the overall health of the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Japanese anemone prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. A soil mix comprising equal parts garden soil, peat moss or compost, and perlite or coarse sand is ideal to ensure proper drainage and fertility.
RepottingJapanese anemones typically do not need frequent repotting as they are usually grown as perennials in the garden. However, if grown in containers, repotting every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its pot is sufficient.
Humidity & MistingJapanese anemones are quite adaptable but prefer moderate humidity levels. They thrive outdoors where the humidity naturally fluctuates and do not require specific humidity adjustments when grown in the garden.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Plant in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, well-draining soil, and mulch.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Anemone × hybrida 'Robustissima', commonly known as the grapeleaf anemone, begins its life cycle when the seeds germinate in spring after a period of cold stratification which breaks seed dormancy. The seedlings develop into a clump of leaves that grow at a steady pace throughout the spring and summer months. During late summer to early fall, the grapeleaf anemone produces tall stems topped with pink flowers that attract pollinators for reproduction. After flowering, the plant sets seeds that are dispersed by wind or wildlife. As winter approaches, the foliage dies back to the ground, and the plant enters a period of dormancy where it survives as underground rhizomes. In spring, the cycle begins anew as new shoots emerge from the rhizomes and start growing, replenished by the stored energy.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Summer to Fall
The most popular method of propagating Anemone × hybrida 'Robustissima', also known as the Grapeleaf Anemone, is through division. This is best done in the spring as the plants start to regrow. To propagate by division, you first dig up the established clump of the grapeleaf anemone carefully to minimize damage to the roots. Then, using a sharp spade or knife, divide the clump into smaller sections, making sure that each section has a portion of root and a few shoots. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing at previously, spacing them about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow sufficient room for growth. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them. Over the next few weeks, make sure to maintain consistent moisture until the divisions are well rooted and showing signs of new growth.
