Poppy anemone (Anemone coronaria) is a flowering plant native to the Mediterranean region. It is widely cultivated and has a wide range of colors. Poppy anemone is most often cultivated to produce cut flowers. It’s also popularly cultivated in home gardens.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Anemone coronaria, the poppy anemone, Spanish marigold, or windflower, is a species of flowering plant in the buttercup family Ranunculaceae, native to the Mediterranean region.
Anemone coronaria is a herbaceous perennial tuberous plant growing to 20–40 cm (7.9–15.7 in) tall, rarely to 60 cm (24 in), spreading to 15–23 cm (5.9–9.1 in), with a basal rosette of a few leaves, the leaves with three leaflets, each leaflet deeply lobed. The flowers which bloom from April to June are borne singly on a tall stem with a whorl of small leaves just below the flower; the flower is 3–8 cm in diameter, with 5–8 red (but may be white or blue) showy petal-like tepals and a black center. The pollen is dry, has an unsculpted exine, is less than 40 nm in diameter, and is usually deposited within 1.5 m of its source. This central mound consists of tightly packed pistils in the center, with a crown-like ring of stamens surrounding this, giving the species its specific epithet coronaria. The flowers produce 200–300 seeds. The plants form hard black tubers as storage organs.
Aside from its flowers resembling poppies, the red single wild form flowers resemble the flowers of the red single wild form of Ranunculus asiaticus.
In the wild, A. coronaria is winter flowering and cross pollinated by bees, flies and beetles, which can carry pollen over long distances.
Poppy anemone is highly toxic. It contains a chemical called protoanemonin, so it is wise to stay away from this one. All parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested when they are fresh. However, toxic effects are only seen if it is eaten in large amounts. Mass consumption can result in extreme pain and irritation in the mouth and gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Poppy anemone also causes dermatitis if the plant’s sap directly contacts the skin. This typically results in blistering and inflammation.
Anemone coronaria was introduced into England prior to 1596, being described in Thomas Johnson’s edition of John Gerard’s Herball, first published in 1597 and was popular during the time of Queen Elizabeth I. By the beginning of the eighteenth century, breeders in France and Italy had already considerably improved the range of colours available.
Anemone coronaria is widely grown for its decorative flowers, and has a hardiness of USDA zones 7–10, preferring full sun to part shade. Although perennial in its native climate, A. coronaria is usually grown as an annual in cooler climates, from tubers. Planting is usually in the autumn if kept in pots in a greenhouse through the winter or in the ground in spring once the risk of frost has passed.
II. How to Grow and Care
Watering
Poppy anemone (Anemone coronaria) is a flowering plant native to the Mediterranean region. It is widely cultivated and has a wide range of colors. Poppy anemone is most often cultivated to produce cut flowers. It’s also popularly cultivated in home gardens.
Fertilizing
Fertilize poppy anemone with balanced nutrition fertilizer for overall health and a high-phosphorus blend to boost bloom production. Apply every 4-6 weeks during the growing season; a light handful per plant is sufficient. Over-fertilization can harm poppy anemone’s delicate roots, so follow package instructions carefully. As poppy anemone enters dormancy in late fall, reduce feeding. Utilize a slow-release formula for consistent nutrient delivery and to prevent burn. This regimen promotes vigorous growth and vibrant flowers, ensuring a healthy poppy anemone life cycle.
Planting Instructions
Poppy anemone is a tuber plant. Since they’re round and flat like those of cyclamen, some people call them “patties”. You must place the tubers in the ground in spring or in fall (preference for fall) and always in well drained soil, or even sandy soil, to avoid any excess moisture that might lead the bulbs to rot.
- First of all, soak the tuber roots for 1 or 2 hours in water. They’ll swell as they take the water in.
- Bury the flattish bulbs more or less 2 inches (5 cm) deep.
- One side is studded with “buds”: it should face up to the sky.
- Space the tubers about 8 inches (20 cm) apart.
- Try planting several patties near one another at the same spot, this will make for a very appealing landscaping effect called clustering.
Pruning
There’s no trimming needed, but you can still eliminate flowers as they wilt away. This triggers renewed blooming.
Propagation
Propagate poppy anemone through tubers in Spring for best results. This plant has moderate propagation difficulty, but successful growth is indicated by vibrant foliage and blooming flowers. Keep the tubers moist and well-drained for optimal success.
Transplanting
Transplant poppy anemone between the first bursts of spring and mid-season blooms, as this offers optimal growth conditions. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Gently loosen the root ball before transplanting, if needed, to encourage root establishment.
Repotting
Repot poppy anemone biennially, as it’s a non-climbing, midsized plant. Optimal repotting is in early spring, to align with growth cycles and post-dormancy vigor. A moderately sized pot with good drainage suits poppy anemone’s needs. After repotting, ensure indirect light, consistent moisture, and avoid over-watering to encourage robust blooming. This thoughtful care ensures poppy anemone’s vibrant displays continue to thrive.
III. Uses and Benefits
The showy flowers produced by poppy anemone are vibrant ornamentals that look good in garden beds and borders. This plant thrives in the sandy soils of rock gardens but also works well in sunny cottage gardens. Its season of interest is spring, when its flowers bloom. It is resistant to deer and makes a great potted patio plant.