Anemone Blanda Blue
Windflower Bulbs for Natural Garden Beauty
Overview
Transform your garden into a carpet of brilliant blue with these charming Anemone Blanda bulbs from Taylor Bulbs. Known as the Grecian windflower, these delightful spring bloomers produce masses of daisy-like flowers that dance in the breeze, creating a naturalistic display that's perfect for woodland gardens, rock gardens, and beneath deciduous trees.
Key Features
Botanical Details
- Scientific name: Anemone blanda
- Common names: Grecian windflower, Winter windflower
- Flower colour: Vibrant blue with white centres
- Blooming period: February to April
- Height: 10-15cm (4-6 inches)
- Spread: 10-15cm per bulb
Garden Performance
- Hardy perennial bulb suitable for UK gardens
- Naturalises readily, spreading to form colonies over time
- Excellent for early nectar when few other flowers are available
- Tolerates partial shade to full sun conditions
- Low maintenance once established
Planting Guide
When to Plant Plant bulbs in autumn from September to November for spring flowering. The earlier you plant, the better the root development before winter.
Where to Plant
- Under deciduous trees and shrubs
- Rock gardens and alpine collections
- Front of borders and naturalised in grass
- Containers and window boxes
- Well-draining soil in sun or partial shade
Planting Instructions
- Soak bulbs overnight in lukewarm water before planting to encourage germination
- Plant 5cm deep and 8-10cm apart
- Choose a spot with good drainage - waterlogged soil can cause bulb rot
- Add grit or sharp sand to heavy clay soils to improve drainage
- Plant pointed end up, though these bulbs will often right themselves if planted incorrectly
Growing Tips
Soil Requirements Anemone blanda thrives in well-draining, moderately fertile soil with a pH between 6.0-7.5. They're tolerant of poor soils once established but benefit from leaf mould or compost worked into the planting area.
Watering and Care
- Water moderately during the growing season
- Allow soil to dry out after flowering as bulbs enter dormancy
- No need to lift bulbs annually - leave in ground to naturalise
- Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring as shoots emerge
After Flowering Allow foliage to die back naturally to feed the bulb for next year's display. This typically takes 6-8 weeks after flowering. You can plant summer bedding over the area once foliage has yellowed.
Garden Uses and Companion Planting
Ideal Locations
- Woodland gardens for early spring colour
- Under fruit trees where grass doesn't grow well
- Mixed with other spring bulbs for extended flowering
- Alpine and rock gardens
- Naturalising in short grass areas
Perfect Partners Plant alongside other early spring bulbs such as:
- Snowdrops (Galanthus)
- Winter aconites (Eranthis)
- Crocus species
- Small daffodils
- Chionodoxa and Scilla
Wildlife Value
These early-flowering bulbs are invaluable for wildlife, providing essential nectar for emerging bees and other pollinators when food sources are scarce. The flowers are particularly attractive to solitary bees and hoverflies.
Expected Results
First Year: Modest flowering as bulbs establish Second Year Onwards: Increasing flower production and gradual spread Long-term: Forms attractive drifts and colonies that return reliably each spring
Each bulb typically produces 2-4 flowers, with established clumps creating impressive displays that herald the arrival of spring in your garden.
Storage and Handling
Store unused bulbs in a cool, dry place with good air circulation. Plant as soon as possible after purchase for best results. These bulbs have a natural protective coating, so handle gently to avoid damage.
Buying Bulbs from Jacksons Nurseries
Bulbs are supplied either in pre-packaged retail packs or in some cases they are loosly picked and sent bagged.