Grecian Windflower Bulbs

Description

• This plant emerges in early spring with dark-green, lobed foliage that creates a lush backdrop for the densely packed 2-inch daisy-like flowers that bloom for about four weeks in optimal conditions. At the height of flowering, the foliage disappears altogether, leaving a mat of color. Most varieties of this plant grow no more then 4 to 6 inches tall, but some cultivars can reach up to 12 inches. If left alone, Grecian windflower spreads easily after planting through reseeding and its underground tubers.

Climate and Culture

• Grecian windflower generally grows in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 8, although it may survive in colder regions if mulched over for the winter. It prefers moist, but well-draining, loose and organic soil. If that is not available, mixing 2 to 3 inches of an organic amendment, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into your soil can increase drainage and nutrient availability. Plant in an area that receives full sun to partial shade throughout the spring with protection from the wind which, ironically, Grecian windflower cannot tolerate well.

Care

• This flower requires little care. It can tolerate drought when dormant during the summer months after flowering and needs no supplemental water. In spring and fall, keep the plants moist by watering whenever the top 1 inch of soil dries to the touch. In less-than-optimal soils, 1 to 2 pounds of 10-10-10 fertilizer per 100 square feet, scattered around the plants, will help them grow flourish. These flowers have few problems, but may develop rhizome rot after experiencing standing water, and leaf spots from overhead watering. Use a drip hose to avoid the latter problem.

Landscape Uses

• Although you can plant individual tubers in a garden or pot, these flowers look best when massed together. Plant different colored cultivars, such as Anemone blanda "White Splendour" and Anemone blanda "Blue Shades," both hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8, to add some variety. For distinct clumps in the first year, space tubers 4 to 5 inches apart. If you want the planting to act as a ground cover, space them 2 to 3 inches apart instead. Since these plants only require full or partial sun when above ground, you can plant them under deciduous trees, usually bare when these flowers bloom.