Japanese Anemone (Anemone hupehensis)

Japanese Anemone

Anemone hupehensis

Delicate pink or white blooms sway like wind-kissed silk. Deciduous herbaceous perennial; common names: Japanese anemone, hupeh anemone.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Prefers partial shade with gentle morning sun; avoid harsh midday direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; ensure proper drainage to avoid root rot from waterlogging
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Temperature Hardy to -10°C; thrives in cool to temperate conditions; protect from extreme heat above 30°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Dark green, deeply lobed basal leaves with toothed margins and palmate venation
  • Flower: Single or semi-double blooms in pink, white, or pale lavender, with prominent bright yellow stamens
  • Stem: Slender, upright smooth stems with sparse, smaller upper leaves
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist; apply a 5 cm layer of mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks to support new growth. Discontinue fertilization after early autumn to prepare the plant for dormancy

Composted banana peel tea:Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 3 days; dilute the tea at a 1:20 ratio for root drenching; avoid using raw peels to prevent pest infestations and odor buildup
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage extended flowering through early autumn
  • Cut back all foliage to ground level after the first hard frost in autumn to tidy the bed and reduce overwintering disease risk
  • Divide overcrowded clumps every 2–3 years in early spring to maintain plant vigor and spread
  • Remove yellowing or damaged leaves throughout the growing season to improve airflow
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion leads to vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, and oral mucosal irritation

Humans: Contains protoanemonin; ingestion causes oral burning, nausea, and vomiting; skin contact may cause mild irritation

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes anticipation and protection against negative energy in some East Asian folk traditions

Usage: Ornamental garden plant; long-lasting cut flower for floral arrangements