Anemone Bulbs & Varieties

When Should You Plant Anemone Bulbs?

Anemone bulbs are best planted in the fall to allow the bulbs to establish roots before springtime sprouting. Soak your anemone bulbs in water overnight before planting. Each bulb should be planted 4-6 weeks before the first expected frost, but if you are located in a warmer area, you may plant the bulbs closer to the end of Autumn or early Winter. Check out our zone finder to locate which area you may be in.

How Do You Plant Anemone Bulbs?

Native to the Mediterranean, anemone flowers are as rugged as they are beautiful. Resistant to insects, pests, and disease, anemone bulbs are drought tolerant as well as shade-tolerant and need little maintenance once planted. Depending on the variety, set them about 3 inches deep, and space them 3-4 inches apart. Water moderately throughout the growing season.

Where To Plant Anemone Bulbs

It's hard to believe that sunny-looking anemones actually prefer a bit of shade. Choose a location with afternoon shade and morning sun, if possible, or try planting poppy anemones under a tree or arbor for dappled shade. Anemones thrive in lightweight, well-draining soil with slight acidity. Choose a spot without standing water, and add loam or sand to improve drainage.

As you ponder where to plant your anemones, think about design as well as shade and soil requirements. Anemones offer clear, bright colors and a low-growing habit, perfect for filling in shady beds. Anemones tend to multiply, making them a pleasing choice for ground cover. Pair these bright plants with other shade-tolerant, woodland varieties like lily-of-the-valley or sweet pea, or use them to fill in among late-spring bulbs like tulips or fritillaria.

How Do You Take Care Of An Anemone Flower Plant?

Charming and easy to care for, anemone bulbs are also versatile in the garden. They tend to spread, which makes them an excellent medium-height ground cover for shaded areas. Anemone flowers also thrive as companion plants to taller flowers and shrubs which provide them a bit of shade. Blooming in early spring, these lovely blossoms pair well with tulips, daffodils, and crocus. Add brilliant hues to rock gardens or naturalize them to make fields and hillsides explode with springtime colour. Excellent for woodland settings, anemone flowers also add a traditional touch to cottage and formal gardens. Invite the poppy anemone into your garden and get to know this classic flower.

Do Anemone Bulbs Multiply?

Yes, Anemone bulbs will multiply and produce more bulbs over time. As each bulb grows and matures, it will develop small bulb offsets or "cormlets" around the original bulb. The cormlets can be separated from the parent bulb and replanted to propagate new plants.

When Do Anemone Bulbs Start to Flower?

Anemone bulbs will flower in the Spring and most commonly flower between March and May. The exact time may vary depending on your specific situation and when you planted them in the fall season. The bulbs will go dormant in the winter and provide the early spring blooms they are known for if cared for properly.

Anemone Blooms in A Range of Colors

Royal purple, fireworks red, snow white, anemones are sure to add interesting color to your gardens or bouquets. Once a garden standard, anemone flowers have lost ground to showier, more complex hybrids. However, we think that once you get acquainted with these easy-going beauties, you'll agree they're due for a comeback.