Set out hybrid anemones in spring or fall in a well-drained, slightly acidic, loamy soil in light shade or full sun. Before planting, incorporate a slow-release fertilizer into the soil along with generous portions of leaf mold, compost, or peat moss; adding a 1- to 2-inch layer of mulch helps preserve moisture. These perennials have little drought tolerance and will show browned foliage if moisture is lacking. During hot, dry summers, you may need to give them some extra water.
Japanese anemone is the catchall name for a large group of late-summer- and fall-blooming hybrids. These heavy-blooming shade plants produce either single or double, pink or white blossoms that float like butterflies on wiry stems above clumps of maple-like foliage. For the late-season garden, Japanese anemones offer some of the brightest color spots. The yellow-centered, saucer-shaped blossoms are up to 3 inches across on many varieties and stand 3 to 5 feet tall; foliage clumps are about 2 feet high and wide.
Lightly shaded sites are best for Japanese anemones. With some protection from sun, the plants grow robustly; they can even tolerate some neglect in regions where rainfall is plentiful. The more vigorous varieties spread by underground rhizomes to form colonies, a welcome addition to naturalized gardens. Plant small drifts of anemones in borders where the late-season foliage will cover holes left by spring bulbs or perennials that have died back. Fit them, also, into bays in shrub borders with azaleas or viburnums; in these locations, you may need to curb their spread.
ZONES: 4–9
BLOOM TIME: Late summer and early fall
LIGHT: Part shade
HEIGHT: 24–48 inches
INTEREST: Colorful blooms that are welcome in shade gardens when little else is blooming