Anemone - Windflower
The Anemone or Windfloweris a diverse garden perennial that comes in almost every color and will provide your garden area with a carpet of colorful flowers.
Throughout history, it’s toxic sap has been used both as an herbal remedy and to eliminate enemies. If you can refrain from eating it, it does make a beautiful border flower in shaded or woodland gardens. There are over 100 species, some more poisonous than others. You can use this as a cut flower, but it might be smart to wash your hands after handling to remove any poisons.
Origins
It is an ancient plant with over 100 species. Anemones contain anemonin which is known to be poisonous.
Origins
The anemone is native to the northern hemisphere and mostly in temperate Asia. It is rich in history where ancient Romans used it to treat fever. It has also been used to treat bruises and freckles when applied topically.
Medicinal Uses
Anemone is used medicinally but is considered somewhat dangerous. It is used to benefit the mucous membranes, digestive disorders and respiratory disorders. When bruised leaves are applied topically to the skin it can cause blisters. Best to not try this at home and leave the medicinal used of anemone to your herbalist!
Color
The anemone comes in every color imaginable and has a 5 petal bowl shaped flower with a well defined center of stamens.
Height
about 9” tall – some grow up to 3 feet and some dwarf varieties are lower than 1 foot.
Flowers In
Species with fibrous roots flower in fall, tuberous species flower in spring.
Care
Plant Anemones in rich moist soil that is well drained especially in winter. They like full sun except the dwarf varieties which prefer shade. Keep them well watered. The tuberous species are often treated as annuals as they can become damaged by frost.
Propagation
Propagate anemones by dividing established clumps in early winter. Can be planted by seed in spring.
Zone
Zones 6 – 10
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