Description
Anemone ‘St Brigid Mixed’ (Anemone coronaria, family Ranunculaceae)
Anemone ‘St Brigid Mixed’, native to Europe, is a perennial admired for its lush, double blooms in a vibrant mix of colours. Each flower showcases layers of ruffled petals highlighted by a striking dark centre, rising on sturdy stems above finely divided, fern-like foliage. Best known for their spectacular spring displays, they may also bloom from mid to late winter and, in some regions, extend into early summer, creating a long-lasting season of colour. Low-maintenance and versatile, they thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, tolerate frost once established, and suit a wide range of climates from cool through to mild tropical regions. Perfect for mass planting in beds and borders, they also shine in compact floral arrangements where their shorter stems add charm and texture.
Where to Plant
Best planted in mixed borders, raised beds, or mass displays where their vibrant colour creates a striking effect. They are equally effective in pots, containers, and wildflower-style gardens, pairing beautifully with other spring-flowering bulbs. Anemones create stunning mass displays and are perfect for clumping in garden beds for long-lasting seasonal interest. Their blooms also make excellent cut flowers, lasting 7–10 days indoors.
Companion Planting
Anemones naturalise gradually and pair well with annuals, biennials, and perennials, as well as ornamental grasses. They also complement spring bulbs such as tulips, ranunculus, and daffodils, creating layered displays while helping to disguise fading foliage.
Climate Suitability
Anemones are suited to a wide range of climates, from cool to mild tropical regions. Thriving in sunny, well-drained soil, they become frost-tolerant once established and perform reliably in gardens with good drainage. In warmer areas, afternoon shade and shelter from strong winds help maintain healthy blooms.
When to Plant
Plant corms in autumn, anytime from March onwards, allowing enough time for roots to establish ahead of winter. Those in frost-prone areas can start their corms in trays or pots in a sheltered spot, then transplant outdoors once the risk of frost has passed. Once established, they can be left in the ground in suitable climates or lifted and replanted each autumn to refresh displays.
Location
Select a full-sun position with at least six hours of sunlight daily, ideally with some protection from the harsh afternoon sun. Ensure the soil drains well and provide shelter from strong winds to help maintain upright stems and healthy blooms.
Soil
Anemones thrive in light, fertile, well-draining soil enriched with compost or organic matter. For containers, use a high-quality potting mix.
How to Plant
- Soak corms: Before planting, soak in lukewarm water for 1–2 hours.
- Depth and spacing: Plant corms 4–8 cm deep and 15 cm apart in garden beds, or 7–10 cm apart in pots. In warmer climates, plant at the deeper end of this range, up to 8 cm, to protect corms from heat and improve establishment.
- Position: Place corms with the pointed end down, cover with soil, and water thoroughly.
Watering
Water well after planting, then continue watering weekly until foliage emerges to encourage root establishment. Once plants are growing, keep the soil evenly moist during active growth and flowering. In most regions, natural rainfall is usually sufficient, though additional watering may be required during dry periods to prevent the soil from drying out completely. Avoid waterlogging, which can cause rot. Container-grown anemones dry out more quickly than those in garden beds and will require more frequent watering to maintain even moisture.
Fertilising
Incorporate a balanced fertiliser, either organic or chemical, or compost at planting time, then apply a liquid fertiliser every 2–3 weeks during the growing season to support strong flowering. A bulb fertiliser may also be used as an alternative.
Mulching
Apply mulch to conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
Maintenance
Remove spent flowers to prolong blooming and encourage energy storage in the corms. Anemones can be treated as annuals or biennials, with new corms planted every 2–3 years as existing corms naturally degenerate over time. This refreshes garden colour and maintains healthy displays.
Cut Flowers
To enjoy Anemones as cut flowers, harvest when buds start to open. Trim stems at an angle, remove lower leaves, and place them in cool water. Keep vases in a cool location, refreshing water every 2–3 days to maintain freshness.
Division and Storage
Unlike many bulbs and perennials, Anemones cannot be divided, as their corms naturally degenerate over time. To maintain vibrant displays, plant new corms every 2–3 years. In cool to arid climates, corms can remain in the ground during dormancy. In hot, humid regions, lift corms once the foliage has died back naturally and store them in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place in breathable containers such as paper or mesh bags, then replant at the start of the next season. For container-grown plants, pots can be moved to a sheltered spot during dormancy or the corms lifted and stored as above.
Pests and Diseases
Anemones are relatively trouble-free but may occasionally face:
- Slugs and snails: Handpick or use organic barriers.
- Aphids: Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Corm rot and fungal diseases: Ensure good drainage to prevent rot.
- Powdery mildew: Improve airflow to reduce risk.
Safety
Anemones are not listed as toxic, but corms and plants should be kept out of reach of children and pets to avoid ingestion.
Supplied as dormant corms, commonly referred to as bulbs.