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Balkan Anemone

Anemone blanda

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
For more information please download the BSBI Code of Conduct PDF document.

Contents

Plant Profile

Flowering Months:
JAN  FEB  MAR  APR  MAY  JUN  JUL  AUG  SEP  OCT  NOV  DEC
Order:
Ranunculales
Family:
Ranunculaceae (Buttercup)
Type:
Flower
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Maximum Size:
15 centimetres tall
Habitats:
Gardens, parks, woodland.

Flower:
֍
Blue, many petals
 
The flower has many blue narrow petals. Balkan Anemone is much like Blue Anemone (Anemone apennina) but the petals are narrower and hairless underneath. Flowers measure 3 or 4cm in diameter. Sometimes pink and white flowers may also be seen.
Fruit:
The fruit is a winged nutlet called an achene. An achene is a type of dry, one-seeded fruit.
Leaves:
The leaves are palmate and dark green. They are 3-lobed and each lobed is toothed around the margins. A compact perennial flower. Garden escape species.
Other Names:
Sapphire Anemone, Winter Windflower.
Frequency (UK):
Occasionally seen  

Similar Species

Other Information

Summary

Anemone blanda, also known as Grecian windflower or Balkan anemone, is a perennial plant that is native to Europe and Asia. It belongs to the buttercup family and is known for its small, white or blue flowers and divided, hairy leaves. Anemone blanda is a low-growing plant that spreads quickly and is often used as a groundcover in gardens. It is easy to grow and is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and climates. Anemone blanda prefers partial shade to full sun and is drought-tolerant once established. The plant is generally hardy and low maintenance, but it can be prone to pests such as slugs and snails. Anemone blanda is also known for its medicinal properties and has been used traditionally to treat a variety of ailments. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and to determine the safety and effectiveness of using it medicinally.

Blog

The Balkan Anemone (Anemone blanda) is a beautiful and hardy perennial flower that is native to the Balkans and the Caucasus region. This plant is known for its delicate, star-shaped flowers that come in shades of blue, pink, and white.

One of the key features of the Balkan Anemone is its low-growing habit. The plant typically reaches a height of only 4-6 inches, making it an excellent choice for rock gardens, front borders, and other low-lying areas. The leaves of the Balkan Anemone are also quite attractive, with a glossy green color and a slightly hairy texture.

The Balkan Anemone is a hardy plant that is able to tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, including both dry and moist soils. It is also relatively pest- and disease-resistant, making it an easy plant to care for. The plant is also drought-tolerant, which makes it an excellent choice for dry climates.

The Balkan Anemone is also a great choice for naturalizing and it is often used as a groundcover. The plant typically blooms in early spring, with the flowers lasting for several weeks. This flower is also a great choice for a long-lasting, low-maintenance display.

Another great feature of the Balkan Anemone is its versatility in the garden. It can be planted in a variety of settings, including mixed borders, rock gardens, and wildflower meadows. It also pairs well with other spring-blooming flowers such as tulips, daffodils, and crocus.

The Balkan Anemone is also a great addition to a butterfly garden. Its delicate flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it an important plant for maintaining biodiversity in the garden.

When it comes to planting and care, the Balkan Anemone is quite easy to grow. It is best planted in the fall, in a spot that receives full sun to partial shade. The soil should be well-drained and moist, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Once established, the plant is drought-tolerant and can be left to naturalize on its own, or it can be divided every few years to keep it from becoming too crowded.

When it comes to pests and diseases, the Balkan Anemone is relatively resistant. However, it is important to watch out for slugs and snails, which can damage the leaves and flowers. To prevent this, you can use slug bait or copper strips around the base of the plant.

Another great feature of the Balkan Anemone is its versatility in the garden. It can be planted in a variety of settings, including mixed borders, rock gardens, and wildflower meadows. It also pairs well with other spring-blooming flowers such as tulips, daffodils, and crocus.

The Balkan Anemone is also a great addition to a butterfly garden. Its delicate flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it an important plant for maintaining biodiversity in the garden.

When it comes to planting and care, the Balkan Anemone is quite easy to grow. It is best planted in the fall, in a spot that receives full sun to partial shade. The soil should be well-drained and moist, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Once established, the plant is drought-tolerant and can be left to naturalize on its own, or it can be divided every few years to keep it from becoming too crowded.

When it comes to pests and diseases, the Balkan Anemone is relatively resistant. However, it is important to watch out for slugs and snails, which can damage the leaves and flowers. To prevent this, you can use slug bait or copper strips around the base of the plant.

In conclusion, the Balkan Anemone (Anemone blanda) is a versatile, hardy and easy to care for perennial that is perfect for adding color and texture to your garden. It's a great choice for rock gardens, mixed borders, wildflower meadows, and butterfly gardens. Its delicate flowers also attract pollinators, making it an important plant for maintaining biodiversity in the garden. Planting in fall, in a spot that receives full sun to partial shade, in well-drained moist soil with slightly acidic to neutral pH is the best. It's relatively resistant to pests and diseases but watch out for slugs and snails. Add this beautiful and hardy flower to your garden and enjoy its delicate beauty for years to come.


Distribution Map

Reproduced by kind permission of the BSBI.

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