Anemone Wild Swan - Japanese Anemone

Anemone rupicola x hupehensis 'Wild Swan' is a medium-sized variety with floral stems adorned with sumptuous flowers with white petals, washed with deep mauve on the reverse.

Awarded at the Chelsea flower show, this Japanese anemone is a charming new variety. It is probably the result of cross-breeding between Anemone rupicola and A. hupehensis. Earlier than most varieties, its flowers bloom from late June.

A highly hardy perennial plant, 'Wild Swan' bears sturdy and upright floral stems that reach a height of 40 to 50cm (16 to 24in). The flowers measure 7 to 8cm (3in) in diameter and have white petals, washed with deep mauve on the reverse. From a distance, the flowers appear pale mauve, but as one approaches the plant, the bi-colouration becomes more distinct.

It bears lovely dark green foliage, composed of three lobed leaflets, which provides a contrasting effect.  

Very easy to grow, this Japanese anemone prefers partial shade and rich, moist, neutral to slightly acidic soil. 'Wild Swan' thrives in cool, light, humus-bearing soil. It can tolerate brief periods of drought and can withstand non-scorching sunlight. Plant it at the edge of or in the background to a border, preferably in a semi-shaded area near the edge of a woodland. Be careful when choosing the angle from which the flowers will be observed, as the ideal situation is to be able to walk around the plant and enjoy the white-mauve alternation.

You can plant it alongside persicarias, cimicifugas, and perennial geraniums.