Species windflower
White-purple flowers and yellow-green centers atop hairy green-purple stems and green leaves.

windflower

Anemone tomentosa

The windflower (Anemone tomentosa) is an amazing plant species. Not only is it highly adaptable, but it also provides stunning color to any garden. It's often called the 'silver fox of the garden' due to its unique silver fur-like foliage. This wildflower is also very easy to care for and can tolerate dry conditions. In the spring it produces a rainbow of bright and beautiful blooms that range from white, pink, and various shades of purple. It's a true showstopper and looks beautiful in a natural or formal garden setting. Plant it and enjoy its eye-catching beauty.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 7

Flowers:

Pink with rose shadings Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Water windflowers regularly during the growing season, which extends from late spring to early fall. Before watering, check to make sure the soil is dry. Water until it is well-saturated and then allow the soil to dry out between waterings. As a general rule, you should water windflowers about once a week, and adjust the frequency as needed based on the soil moisture or climate in your area.

sunlight

Windflowers prefer full sun but will tolerate partial shade, so if you’re planting this plant species, make sure it will get around 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. If you live in an area with intense, hot sunlight, it’s best to plant Windflowers in areas that get some shade during the hottest time of day. This will help the plant survive the intense heat and will give it a chance to grow and thrive.

pruning

For best results, prune your Windflower in early spring before the new growth begins. Start by removing any dead or diseased stems and thin out overcrowded areas. Deadheading (removing spent flower petals) is also recommended to stimulate new blooms. After blooming, you can also prune back the stems by a third of their original length after the flowers fade for a fuller plant. Keep in mind that Windflower does not require heavy pruning, so trimming too much can reduce blooming potential in the upcoming season, so be sure to trim only the necessary branches.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Anemone tomentosa typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Anemone tomentosa typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map

FAQ

Is the wind flower hardy plant?

Yes, the wind flower is a hardy plant that is known for its ability to withstand extreme weather conditions. It can be found growing in areas with low temperatures, high winds, and periods of drought. It is also a tough plant that is tolerant of abuse from people and animals. With adequate amounts of sun and water, the wind flower can thrive in any landscape.

Can windflower tolerate wild drought?

Yes, windflowers (Anemone acutiloba) are quite tolerant of drought conditions. The plant's root system is quite deep, enabling it to reach down to water sources even during long periods of little or no rainfall. Not only is it tolerant of drought, but windflower is also highly resistant to most pests and disease. It is often referred to as a “tough beauty” for its ability to withstand harsh climates as well as its bold and lush appearance.

Are windflowers easy to grow from seed?

Yes, windflowers, or Anemone blanda, are relatively easy to grow from seed. They are native to grassland habitats in Europe and the Mediterranean, which makes them accustomed to growing in well-drained, lightly-fertilized soils. It is often recommended to sow windflower seeds directly onto the soil, where they should be kept moist in warmer climates. They are a relatively low-maintenance plant, requiring little water and light pruning, and they can make spectacular additions to any garden.

Could windflowers be grown in containers?

Yes, windflowers can be grown in containers. Planting the seeds indoors in a sunny spot and then transplanting your windflowers to containers once the seedlings are about 3 inches tall is a great way to get your container windflower garden started. Windflowers do best when grown in well-drained soil and should be watered regularly. Fertilize and trim your container windflowers as needed, taking care to deadhead them regularly so they will keep producing blooms throughout the season. To protect your windflowers in the winter, either move the container indoors or invest in a winter heating blanket. With proper care, your container windflower garden can flourish year-round.

Can windflowers be used as cut flowers?

Yes, windflowers can be used as cut flowers. They have delicate five-petaled crepe-textured flowers in shades of white, pink, or purple. While they are mostly grown as a potted plant, they can be cut and used as a suitable option for flower bouquets and other decorations. Windflowers will make more of an impact when you group them together with other blooming elements.

How long do windflowers typically bloom?

Windflowers, also known as Anemones, typically bloom from late spring to early summer, last around 4 to 6 weeks. The exact time of bloom may vary depending on weather conditions, but will usually last from mid-April to mid-June. Some varieties may also flower for a second time in late summer or even into the autumn months.

Do windflowers have a strong fragrant?

Windflowers (Anemone blanda) are not known for their fragrant. They are small flowers, with a bell-shaped bloom which typically come in shades of blue, pink, white, and purples. Although windflowers aren't known for a strong scent, it has been said that when grown in groups windflowers can give off a pleasant smell with a hint of citrus. They are charming flowers that look beautiful when grown in the garden and are lovely to admire, however, if you are looking for a strongly fragrant flower, a windflower is not ideal.

Should windflowers be planted in the fall or spring?

Windflowers should be planted in the spring. While they may be able to survive if planted in the fall, they will experience much better growth and hardiness in the spring months when temperatures are warmer and soil is easier to work with. Since windflowers are typically hardy, they can be planted in spring as early as the last frost date, which allows them to take advantage of the spring rains which will help them to become established without having to be heavily watered by hand.