Elfin Swan Anemone Anemone Elfin Swan = 'Macane017' (PBR)
ABOUT
The Anemone Elfin Swan is characterized by its striking flowers, which display a unique blend of colors. The blossoms are predominantly white but are distinguished by their reverse, which showcases an attractive hint of lavender-blue that is sure to catch the eye. The flower's center has a cluster of golden-yellow stamens, imparting a delightful contrast against the petals, evoking a sense of serene beauty. The foliage of the Elfin Swan is deep green, providing a lush backdrop for the flowers. The leaves are divided into various segments, presenting a delicate and intricate texture that complements the overall aesthetic of the plant. As the plant cycles through its blooming period, the dance of white and subtle lavender-blue hues against the rich greens provides an enchanting display that can enliven any garden space.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Elfin Swan Anemone
Common names
Anemone Elfin Swan, Macane017 (PBR).
ToxicityTo humans
The Anemone Elfin Swan contains toxic compounds that can be harmful if ingested. Contact with the sap may also cause skin irritation in some individuals. If ingested, symptoms of poisoning from anemones commonly include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, it may lead to respiratory issues, lethargy, convulsions, and in rare instances, can be life-threatening. It is advisable to seek medical attention if any part of the plant is ingested or if a skin reaction develops.
To pets
Anemone Elfin Swan is toxic to pets if ingested. The plant contains irritant substances, which can cause symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, tremors, seizures, and weakness. The most vulnerable pets are dogs and cats, who may chew on plants out of curiosity or boredom. If you suspect your pet has ingested this plant, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Blooms: Anemone Elfin Swan features beautiful white flowers with a distinct lavender reverse, adding a touch of elegance to garden displays.
- Extended Blooming Season: With a flowering period from late spring to early fall, it provides a long-lasting display of color.
- Low Maintenance: It is considered low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established, which is ideal for busy gardeners.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it has a degree of drought tolerance, making it suitable for gardens with less frequent watering schedules.
- Cold Hardy: It is resilience to cold temperatures, allowing it to thrive in cooler climates.
- Compact Growth: The plant has a clump-forming habit, keeping a neat and compact shape that is perfect for borders or small spaces.
- Wildlife Attraction: Its blooms attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting the local ecosystem.
- Herbaceous Perennial: As a perennial, it will return each year, providing long-term value in the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Anemone Elfin Swan can be used in dried flower arrangements. Once the blooms fade, they can be harvested and dried to create long-lasting floral displays.
- The plant serves as an excellent ground cover, spreading to form a dense mat that can suppress weeds and stabilize soil.
- With its attractive foliage and flowers, Anemone Elfin Swan is suitable for ornamental borders in a fairy or miniature garden setting.
- Its vibrant blooms attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, helping to support local ecosystems.
- Anemone Elfin Swan can be used as a seasonal potted plant to decorate patios, balconies, or as a centerpiece for outdoor tables.
- The plant's cut flowers can be a delicate addition to wedding bouquets or other formal floral arrangements.
- Photographers may use Anemone Elfin Swan as a subject for botanical photography due to its distinctive appearance.
- It can be planted to commemorate an event or loved one as a living tribute that returns each year.
- Anemone Elfin Swan may be used in educational settings for teaching botany or horticulture, showcasing the life cycle of perennials.
- Its seeds, once ripened, can be collected and used for seed exchange programs among garden enthusiasts.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Anemone is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Anemone is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Anticipation and Expectation: The Anemone flower, in general, represents anticipation and expectation, perhaps due to the fact that anemones are a spring flower and their blooming is eagerly awaited after winter.
- Fragility: The delicate appearance of the petals of the Anemone Elfin Swan reflects a sense of fragility and tenderness, which can symbolize sensitivity and a gentle approach to situations.
- Forsaken Love: In the language of flowers, anemones sometimes represent a feeling of having been forsaken or abandoned in love, stemming from the myth of Adonis and Aphrodite, where the anemone bloomed from Aphrodite's tears and Adonis's blood.
- Protection Against Evil: Anemones are also believed to ward off evil spirits and ill luck, and have been carried as amulets or charms to protect against misfortune.
- Transient Nature of Life: Due to their brief blooming period, anemones can symbolize the ephemeral and fleeting nature of existence. This is reflective of the "here today, gone tomorrow" nature of some opportunities or experiences in life.
WaterAnemone 'Elfin Swan' should be watered regularly to maintain moist, but not saturated, soil. During the growing season, typically in spring and summer, it may need water once or twice a week, depending on the climate and weather conditions. Use a gentle watering method, such as a watering can or drip irrigation, to avoid disturbing the soil or damaging the plant. Each week, aim to provide about one inch of water, which may equate to around 0.623 gallons per square foot. In the dormant season, reduce watering frequency to prevent waterlogging, which could cause root rot.
LightAnemone 'Elfin Swan' thrives best in partial shade to full sun, depending on the climate. In cooler areas, it can tolerate full sun, but in hotter regions, it benefits from some afternoon shade to protect it from the intense heat of the day. The ideal spot for this plant would have morning sunlight and dappled shade in the afternoon to ensure vibrant growth without the risk of sun scorch.
TemperatureAnemone 'Elfin Swan' prefers temperatures ranging between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth. It can survive in temperatures as low as 50°F, but frost and extreme cold can be harmful. In hot climates, ensure that the plant is shielded from temperatures exceeding 85°F to prevent heat stress.
PruningPrune Anemone 'Elfin Swan' to remove spent flowers and encourage further blooming, and to maintain plant shape and health. Deadheading, which is the process of removing faded blooms, can be done throughout the blooming season. More extensive pruning to shape the plant or remove damaged foliage should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAnemone Elfin Swan prefers well-draining soil enriched with organic matter, with a pH ranging between 5.5 to 7.5.
RepottingAnemone Elfin Swan should generally be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.
Humidity & MistingThe Elfin Swan Anemone thrives in average to high humidity levels, consistent with what is typically found in outdoor garden settings.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and maintain moist soil.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Anemone 'Elfin Swan', as a perennial plant, begins its life cycle with seed germination, which occurs in suitable environmental conditions of warmth and moisture. Following germination, the seedling emerges and establishes a root system while developing primary leaves through the juvenile stage. As it matures into the vegetative stage, the plant produces more robust foliage and prepares for flowering. The transition to the reproductive stage occurs when the Anemone 'Elfin Swan' begins to develop flower buds, which eventually bloom into distinctive white flowers with violet-blue on the reverse of the petals, usually in late spring or early summer. After pollination, often by insects, the plant sets seeds which can be dispersed to begin new life cycles. During fall and winter, the plant may become dormant, with foliage dying back, preserving energy in the roots for the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Anemone Elfin Swan, a perennial plant, is through division. This is best done in the fall or early spring when the plant is dormant. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant, ensuring that you get a good portion of the roots. Then, using a sharp knife or spade, divide the root ball into sections, each with several shoots and a healthy amount of root system. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing at previously, spacing them about 12 inches (approximately 30 cm) apart to allow room for growth. It is important to water the new divisions well after planting to help establish them. Avoid dividing the plant too frequently as this can stress the plant and impact its vigor and flowering.
