Anemone Blanda

Description

Anemone Blanda, commonly known as Grecian windflower, is a small, herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to southeastern Europe and Turkey and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. Anemone Blanda produces delicate, daisy-like flowers in shades of blue, pink, and white that bloom in early spring.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Anemone Blanda plant grows up to 15 centimeters tall and has a spread of up to 10 centimeters. The leaves are basal, lobed, and hairy, with stems that rise above the foliage to hold the flowers. The flowers are typically 2-3 centimeters across and have five to eight petals, which are usually blue or pink, but can also be white. The center of the flower has a prominent yellow stamen and green pistil. The plant blooms in early spring and goes dormant in summer.

Care Guide

Anemone Blanda requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers full sun to partial shade and moderate watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Anemone Blanda is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Anemone Blanda is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can occasionally be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. It may also be attacked by slugs and snails, which can be controlled by using slug baits or traps.

Habitat

Anemone Blanda is native to southeastern Europe and Turkey, where it grows in meadows and rocky hillsides. It prefers well-draining soil and moderate moisture levels. In cultivation, it is often used as a border plant, rock garden plant, or planted in containers.

Question and Answer

Q: When should I plant Anemone Blanda bulbs?
A: Anemone Blanda bulbs should be planted in the fall, around October or November, before the first frost.

Q: Can Anemone Blanda tolerate drought?
A: Anemone Blanda prefers moderate moisture levels and does not tolerate drought well. It is important to keep the soil slightly moist, but not waterlogged.

Q: How do I propagate Anemone Blanda?
A: Anemone Blanda can be propagated by division in the fall or spring. Dig up the clumps and separate them into smaller sections, making sure each section has a healthy root system.

Q: How long do Anemone Blanda flowers last?
A: Anemone Blanda flowers typically last for two to three weeks.

Related Plants

• Anemone coronaria
• Anemone nemorosa
• Anemone sylvestris
• Anemone hupehensis
• Anemone canadensis

References

• “Anemone blanda.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277261.
• “Anemone blanda.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/2474/anemone-blanda/details.
• “Anemone blanda.” The Spruce. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/anemone-blanda-plant-profile-4685248.