Anemone 'Robustissima'

Anemone tomentosa 'Robustissima': The Hardy Pioneer of Autumn Blooms

Anemone tomentosa 'Robustissima', commonly known as the Grapeleaf Anemone, is a resilient and vigorous perennial that ushers in the fall with a flourish of soft pink blossoms. Esteemed as the most hardy and adaptable of the fall-blooming anemones, 'Robustissima' stands out not only for its robust growth but also for its ability to thrive in a range of garden settings, making it an indispensable addition for those seeking to extend their garden's display of color into the cooler months.

Product Characteristics:

• Height: Towering with elegance, 'Robustissima' reaches heights of 90-120 cm, making it an ideal backdrop for perennial borders or a striking focal point in mixed beds.
• Spread: It spreads to about 60-90 cm, creating an impressive display of foliage and flowers that can fill garden spaces with vibrant life.
• Flower Colour: The blossoms are a charming soft pink, with a slightly deeper pink at the reverse, circling around a bright yellow center that adds a cheerful contrast.
• Flowering Period: Blooming from late summer into early fall, this anemone bridges the gap between the high season of summer and the onset of autumn, providing a continuous flow of garden interest.
• Foliage: Its foliage is unique, resembling that of a grape leaf, which is deeply lobed and slightly fuzzy, adding texture and greenery throughout the growing season.
• Sunlight Requirements: Prefers full sun to part shade, showcasing its adaptability and thriving even as the light begins to wane in late summer and fall.
• Soil Requirements: Enjoys well-drained, moist soil but is notable for its tolerance to a variety of soil conditions, making it a versatile choice for different garden environments.

Uses and Benefits: Anemone tomentosa 'Robustissima' is a perfect choice for adding late-season vibrancy to borders, cottage gardens, or woodland settings. Its tall, graceful stems and eye-catching blooms are ideal for cutting and bringing the beauty of the fall garden indoors. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, 'Robustissima' is also valued for its ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, contributing to the biodiversity of the garden.

Companion Plants: Pair 'Robustissima' with other autumn bloomers like Sedum 'Autumn Joy', Rudbeckia, and Echinacea to create a dynamic and colorful display as the season transitions. Its soft pink flowers also complement the foliage of ornamental grasses, such as Miscanthus, adding texture and movement to the garden landscape.

Care Instructions: Anemone tomentosa 'Robustissima' is low maintenance, requiring minimal care to thrive. Water regularly to maintain even soil moisture, especially in periods of drought, and apply a layer of mulch to help retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature. Cutting back the foliage after the first hard frost can help keep the garden tidy and promote vigorous growth in the spring.

History: Known for its exceptional hardiness and early blooming period among fall anemones, 'Robustissima' has earned its place in gardens as a reliable and beautiful perennial. Its common name, Grapeleaf Anemone, reflects the distinctive shape of its foliage, adding to its unique charm and appeal.

Final Thoughts: Anemone tomentosa 'Robustissima' is a celebration of autumn's beauty, offering a bounty of blooms when many other plants begin to retreat. Its resilience, coupled with its graceful soft pink flowers, makes it a cherished addition to the late-season garden. Whether standing tall among other perennials or swaying gently in the autumn breeze as a standalone specimen, 'Robustissima' brings a touch of robust beauty and enduring charm to any garden setting, ensuring that the garden's performance continues magnificently into the fall.