Anemone ‘praecox’

Anemone praecox

Anemone praecox is an elegant Japanese anemone that brings fresh colour to borders in the later months of the year. Its semi-double, rose-pink flowers with golden stamens appear in generous succession from late summer into autumn, providing a soft yet striking presence just as many plants begin to fade. A valuable nectar source, it draws in bees and hoverflies at a time when food is scarcer in the garden.

This perennial is hardy, reliable, and thrives in sun to partial shade, where it forms tall, graceful clumps topped with airy blooms. Anemone praecox is well-suited to mixed borders, cottage gardens, and naturalistic planting schemes, where its upright habit and long-lasting display provide structure and late-season cheer. Once established, it will spread gently to create impressive drifts.

Specifications:

• Height: 80–120cm

• Spread: 60–90cm

• Flowering: August to October

• Position: Sun or partial shade

• Soil: Moist but well-drained, fertile soil

• Maintenance: Mulch annually to enrich the soil; cut stems back after flowering; divide clumps in spring if overcrowded

🌿 Note for Isle of Wight planting:

Anemone praecox thrives in the island’s mild climate, where its long flowering season is extended even further into autumn. It copes well in coastal gardens if given some shelter from strong winds and pairs beautifully with late-season grasses and perennials that enjoy the Isle’s free-draining soils.

🌿 Ideal Companion Plants from The Green Standard Range:

• Perovskia ‘Blue Spire’ – silvery spires of blue that contrast beautifully with pink blooms

• Erigeron karvinskianus – soft, daisy-like flowers that weave at ground level

• Cephalaria gigantea – towering yellow blooms that extend the pollinator interest

🌟 The Green Standard Tip

Plant Anemone praecox in generous groups or drifts to maximise its airy, elegant impact. Combine with ornamental grasses or other late bloomers to carry your garden’s display gracefully into the shorter days.