5 Types of White Anemones

White anemones are the second most common type of anemones, behind bluish-violet ones. These flowers grow anywhere in the world with temperate or subtropical climates except for Australia, New Zealand, and Antarctica. Their name, “daughter of the wind,” comes from how the wind helps its bulbs open and blows away dead petals as well.

Anemones have three main groups:

• Tuberous or rhizomatous species that grow in forests and alpine meadows and flower in the spring
• Species with tuberous roots that flower in the spring and summer in hot, dry areas
• Species with fibrous roots, which grow best in moist, shady areas, blooming in the summer and autumn

No matter which group they belong to, white anemones are sure to class up floral arrangements and wedding bouquets and make your garden more elegant. They are beautiful, delicate flowers that are easy to care for and can add beauty to any environment.

We’ll provide you with a list of the prettiest varieties and some advice on how to care for them to yield stunning, voluptuous flowers. Since it’s a perennial flower, any competent gardener will have anemones at hand for many years after planting them. Even if you’re uninterested in gardening, you’ll know what to order when arranging party decorations.

Types of White Anemones

Anemones come in various colors and shapes, yet they all have poppy-like flowers that sway with the wind. Since this flower has a plethora of species and we can’t cover all of them, we’ve made a selection of the prettiest white varieties.

Anemone coronaria — ‘The Bride’

This variety’s name gives away its most widespread use, and it’s no surprise given its simple but dramatic aspect. These give wedding bouquets a fresh, bright look with crisp white petals and a beautiful pale green center. It grows easily in moist, well-drained soil that has plenty of sunlight. 

If you’re in an area where the winter isn’t harsh, you can plant it in the fall, and it’ll bloom in early spring. Otherwise, planting it in the spring or early summer is best. Coronaria anemones are excellent cut flowers, lasting several weeks in a vase.

Anemone x hybrida — ‘Honorine Jobert’

This white anemone is an ancient variety beloved for its vigor and elegance. Its flowers have a sturdy base forming dense foliage and tall branches reaching 4 feet tall. They exhibit slightly cupped white flowers with contrasting yellow stamens, perfect for meadows or coastal gardens.

You should plant this cultivar in moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter, ensuring it doesn’t get overwhelming sunlight. Although not invasive, these plants can take over your garden if left unattended.

Anemone blanda — ‘White Splendour’

This award-winning variety honors its name with its pure white petals, yellow centers, and pink-tinted backs. It has small foliage at its base, and its flowers spread out, forming a carpet of flowers. This anemone is ideal for naturalizing under shrubs and trees.

You can plant it in the fall because of its ability to survive the winter as long as it has partial shade and moist soil, and it will blossom abundantly in early spring.

Anemone sylvestris

Also known as “Snowdrop Anemone,” this variety can brighten up shaded areas thanks to the contrast between its dark green foliage and cup-shaped white flowers. Once the petals fall off, white, wooly seed heads will remain, making the plant’s beauty last longer. 

Since it’s pest- and disease-free and resistant to rabbits and deer, it’s a low-maintenance addition to any garden as long as it’s in medium-moisture soil and gets little sunlight.

Anemone x hybrida — ‘Frilly Knickers’

A new breed, this variety doesn’t tend to spread around your garden, opting to stay in place. Its frilled, white petals have a tinge of purple and grow on top of each other around a golden center. This plant is loved by butterflies and bees, which are drawn to the nectar-rich blooms.

It can bloom in early fall in moist, fertilized soil that gets more shade than sunlight. It is easy to grow and full of flowers, creating a fantastic, almost romantic display.

Growing and Caring for White Anemones

Aside from the particular soil and sunlight instructions we’ve given you, the following indications apply to any cultivar of this flower.

If you have a variety that grows tall, you should support the branches so they don’t bend or break. You’d do well in picking out large corms to ensure a healthier plant that grows more flowers. Before planting, always soak the corms in warm water for four hours, which will help the sprouts grow faster.

You should deadhead the flowers after they fade but keep the foliage intact to accumulate energy for the following year. If your anemone isn’t winter-hardy, you can dig out the corms when the foliage dies, dry them, and replant them in the spring.

Up Next:

• Anemone vs. Poppy: What is the Difference?
• Discover: 4 Animals That Pollinate (Other Than Bees)
• What Flowers Attract Butterflies?

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Svetlana Mahovskaya/Shutterstock.com