Anemone multifida: complete guide

Overview

Anemone multifida, commonly known as cut-leaf anemone or red windflower, is an enchanting mountain plant from the Ranunculaceae family. This North American species features elegantly dissected foliage and long-lasting flowers in red to pink shades. Perfect for alpine gardens, rock gardens, and sunny borders.

Appearance & bloom

Anemone multifida grows in dense rosettes with finely divided, hairlike foliage appearing silky soft. From May to August, slender stems carry striking flowers in red, pink, or white, each with a yellow center. Height reaches 30-50 cm.

Ideal location

Choose full sun to lightly shaded spots with well-draining soil. This plant prefers cool environments with good air circulation. Perfect on rocky outcrops, alpine terrain, and raised borders.

Soil

Anemone multifida prefers well-drained, humus-rich soil with pH 6.0-7.5. A mixture of potting soil with gravel or grit significantly improves drainage. Poor root compaction tolerance.

Watering

Keep moist during the growing season, but avoid waterlogging. Once blooming begins, reduce watering gradually. Monitor moisture needs during active growth.

Pruning

Removing spent flowerheads encourages extended bloom. After flowering, stems can be removed. The plant goes dormant after seed set and re-emerges in spring.

Maintenance calendar

March: plant begins emerging. April-May: active growth season. May-August: blooming and deadheading. September-October: plant retreats. November-February: winter dormancy.

Winter hardiness

Anemone multifida is fully hardy to -20 degrees Celsius. It thrives even in very cold climates. Protection from extreme moisture accumulation helps in very wet winters.

Companion plants

Pair with other alpine species: Pulsatilla, Campanula, Saxifraga, Primula, and Dianthus. Also lovely with grasses like Festuca and sedges.

Closing

Anemone multifida is a valuable addition to alpine and character-filled gardens. With minimal care, this plant provides elegant flowers throughout the season. Find it at specialized nurseries. Visit gardenworld.app/en and gardenworld.app/nl for design inspiration.