Jewel-toned poppy-like blooms for spring cutting
| Type | Tender perennial (corm) |
|---|---|
| Zones | 7–10 (lift elsewhere) |
| Sun | Full sun to light shade |
| Height | 12–18 inches |
| Bloom Season | Spring |
| Vase Life | 5–8 days |
| Start | Plant corms in fall (mild) or late winter |
Anemones produce poppy-like blooms with dark, dramatic centers surrounded by delicate petals in red, purple, blue, pink, and white. They are closely related to ranunculus in growing requirements—both are cool-season corm flowers that demand good drainage and mild temperatures.
Anemone coronaria is the type grown for cutting. 'De Caen' (single) and 'St. Brigid' (semi-double) are classic series. The 'Galilee' and 'Jerusalem' series from Israeli breeders produce longer stems and larger blooms better suited to cutting.
Soak corms in room-temperature water for 4–6 hours before planting (no longer). Plant 2 inches deep, 4–6 inches apart. In zones 7+, plant in fall for spring blooms. In colder zones, plant in late winter/early spring or start in trays and transplant. Like ranunculus, they need cool growing temperatures. Overwintering guidance applies similarly.
Full sun, excellent drainage, and cool temperatures. Do not overwater—corms rot easily. Light feeding supports production. Anemones produce for 4–6 weeks and can keep going if temperatures stay cool.
Cut when petals are just starting to unfurl from the bud. Anemones open and close with light, which is part of their charm. Harvest in morning. They pull easily from the base, giving maximum stem length.
5–8 days with good conditioning. They drink a lot of water, so check levels daily.
The dark centers of anemones make them a striking focal accent. Mix with ranunculus, sweet peas, and dusty miller in spring arrangements. They are popular in wedding work for their graphic, photogenic quality.