Poppy Anemone ‘Hollandia’, a cultivar of Anemone coronaria, is a popular garden choice known for its vibrant, poppy-like blooms. Its striking appearance enhances garden beds and makes it a favorite for fresh cut flower arrangements. These plants are generally easy to grow.
Planting and Growing Conditions
Proper planting time and site selection are key for Poppy Anemone ‘Hollandia’. In warmer regions (USDA Zones 7-10), plant corms in fall for late winter to early spring blooms. For colder climates (Zones 3-6), spring planting is recommended after the last frost, allowing corms to establish before freezing temperatures.
Before planting, rehydrate dried corms by soaking them in room-temperature water for 3 to 4 hours to encourage faster sprouting; avoid over-soaking to prevent rot. Corms can be planted directly or pre-sprouted in moist potting soil in a cool, dark place for one to two weeks until rootlets appear.
‘Hollandia’ thrives in full sun to partial shade, ideally receiving at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for abundant flowering. Well-draining soil is crucial to prevent waterlogging and corm rot. A mixture of garden soil, coarse sand, and compost provides good aeration and nutrient balance. Plant corms 2 to 4 inches deep and 3 to 6 inches apart.
Ongoing Care
Once established, ‘Poppy Anemone Hollandia’ requires consistent moisture, typically needing water about once a week. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, as overwatering can lead to root rot. Water at the base of the plant to ensure water reaches the roots.
Fertilization supports vigorous growth and blooming. Incorporate a slow-release fertilizer at planting or apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 3-4 weeks during the growing season. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which promotes leafy growth over flowers. Deadheading, the removal of spent flowers, encourages continuous blooming by redirecting energy from seed production to new flower development and maintains a tidy appearance.
In colder climates (Zones 3-6), ‘Hollandia’ corms are frost-sensitive; lift them in fall after foliage dies back. Dry them for a few days, then store in a cool, dry place (50-60°F) for winter. In warmer zones (7-10), corms can remain in the ground and may benefit from a layer of mulch for insulation.
Characteristics and Uses
Poppy Anemone ‘Hollandia’ is known for its striking red, poppy-like flowers, often adorned with a white ring and black stamens. These vibrant blooms typically appear in mid to late spring and can last up to four weeks. Plants generally grow 10 to 18 inches tall with an 8 to 12-inch spread.
The fine, ferny foliage complements the bright flowers. ‘Hollandia’ is a versatile plant, suitable for mass plantings, borders, rock gardens, and containers. It attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies and is considered deer-resistant.
‘Hollandia’ is particularly popular as a cut flower due to its vibrant color and vase life. For best results, harvest flowers in the morning when blooms are just opening or have developed a short “collar” between the flower head and stem. Regular cutting encourages more blooms throughout the season.
Common Issues and Solutions
Corm rot is a common challenge for Poppy Anemone ‘Hollandia’, primarily caused by overly wet conditions. Effective prevention involves ensuring well-draining soil and avoiding overwatering. If planting in containers, confirm adequate drainage holes.
A lack of blooms often stems from insufficient sunlight or improper nutrient balance. If light is limited, consider relocating plants or pruning nearby obstructions. Adjusting fertilization to a balanced formula, avoiding excessive nitrogen, can also encourage more flowers.
While generally resilient, ‘Hollandia’ can occasionally encounter pests like leaf beetles, which gnaw on leaves and petals. Fungal issues, such as powdery mildew, can occur, especially in humid environments. Increasing air circulation around plants and watering at the soil level rather than overhead helps prevent these diseases.