Pocahontas Japanese Windflower

Plant in spring or fall in moist, humus-rich soil in partial shade, spacing 18–24 inches apart. Japanese anemone is one of the most valuable late-season perennials for shaded gardens, producing an abundance of flowers from late summer through fall. Incorporate compost into the planting area. Mulch well to retain moisture. Japanese anemone is slow to establish — be patient in the first year or two.

Once established, Japanese anemone spreads readily by underground runners to form expanding colonies — a wonderful quality in naturalistic settings. Remove spent flowers if desired or allow seed heads to develop for additional interest. Cut back to the ground in late fall. No fertilizing is needed in organically rich soil. The late summer and fall bloom season, when little else is flowering in shade, makes this an invaluable garden perennial.