Japanese Anemone ‘Honorine Jobert’: A Stunning Late-Season Perennial
Japanese Anemones, although native to China, were mistakenly named after Japan due to a historical record of one plant originating from Japan. Among the notable cultivars is ‘Honorine Jobert‘, an old garden hybrid discovered in Verdun, France, in 1858. This particular hybrid, also known as Anemone x hybrida ‘Alba’, emerged as the Perennial Plant Association’s Perennial of the Year in 2016. It is a result of a cross between Anemone hupehensis var. japonica and A. vitifolium, bred at the Royal Horticultural Society’s garden in Chiswick.
Anemone ‘Honorine Jobert’ received the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit in 1993. This vigorous and low-maintenance plant forms neat, dense mounds of foliage with a fibrous-rooted woody base, offering year-round interest in mild climates. The glossy basal foliage reaches a height of 12-18 inches, while the blooming plants soar to 3-4 feet. The palmate, toothed dark green leaves are lightly covered with fine hairs, and it spreads through shallow creeping rhizomes.
Description: Showy Blooms and Compact Growth
‘Honorine Jobert’ enchants with its long-lasting display of white flowers that grace the late summer to early fall period. Clusters of showy white blooms emerge on long, wiry stems, rising above the foliage. The gracefully erect and branching stems bear round, pink-washed buds that open to reveal 2-3″ wide single to semi-double flowers.
These open-faced flowers boast 6-9 brilliant white overlapping tepals and numerous bright yellow stamens, forming a ring around a chartreuse center. On the back side of the tepals, a blush of pink adds depth, while the slightly ruffled tips create an illusion of even more dimension. The blooming period extends well past the first frost, and the inflorescences make excellent cut flowers. While bees and butterflies are attracted to the flowers, the plants rarely produce seeds, although rounded seed heads may appear.
Growing ‘Honorine Jobert’ Japanese Anemone: A Versatile Perennial
Anemone ‘Honorine Jobert’ is a herbaceous perennial that thrives in both full sun and partial shade. It can be grown in various soil types but prefers moist and well-drained conditions. With its Ranunculaceae family classification, it can reach a height of 3 feet or 90 cm. Notably, this plant is not edible and can cause stomach upset if ingested. Ideally, it should be cultivated in rich, organic soil that retains moisture.
While it can tolerate clay soils, it does not fare well in dry or overly wet conditions, especially during winter. In optimal conditions, where loose, organic soil is provided, it may spread slowly and aggressively, potentially overpowering other perennials. Therefore, it is best suited for larger landscapes. Japanese anemones are generally resistant to serious insect and disease problems, although slugs, blister beetles, and flea beetles may occasionally pose a threat. Deer and rabbits tend to avoid them. It is worth noting that contact with the plant’s sap may cause skin irritation in some individuals.
Growing Anemone ‘Honorine Jobert‘:
To ensure the successful growth of the ‘Honorine Jobert’ Japanese Anemone, it is important to consider its sunlight requirements, soil preferences, and proper planting techniques.
Sunlight Requirements: ‘Honorine Jobert’ thrives in locations that offer a balance of sunlight and shade. Ideally, it should be planted in areas that receive full morning sun with some afternoon shade, especially in regions with hot summers. In cooler climates, it can tolerate more sun and may benefit from additional sunlight exposure. Providing the right balance of light will help promote healthy foliage growth and abundant flowering.
Soil Preferences: Anemone ‘Honorine Jobert’, prefer moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They are adaptable plants and can tolerate various soil types, including loam, sandy soil, and clay. However, it is important to ensure the soil is not excessively wet or prone to waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot and other issues. Amending heavy clay soils with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, can improve drainage and create a more favorable environment for the plant.
Planting Techniques for Anemone ‘Honorine Jobert’:
Here are some guidelines to follow when planting Anemone ‘Honorine Jobert’:
- Choose a location: Select a suitable spot in your garden that meets the sunlight requirements mentioned above. Consider the plant’s height and give it enough space to grow and spread comfortably.
- Prepare the soil: Before planting, prepare the soil by removing any weeds or debris. Loosen the soil to a depth of about 12 inches, incorporating organic matter to improve drainage and soil fertility.
- Dig the planting hole: Dig a hole that is slightly wider and deeper than the root ball of the plant. This will provide enough space for the roots to establish and grow.
- Place the plant: Gently place the ‘Honorine Jobert’ Japanese Anemone in the center of the hole, ensuring the crown is level with or slightly above the soil surface. Adjust the plant’s position if needed.
- Backfill and firm the soil: Backfill the hole with the amended soil, firming it gently around the roots to eliminate air pockets. Avoid compacting the soil too tightly, as this can hinder water drainage.
- Water thoroughly: After planting, water the newly placed Japanese Anemone thoroughly. This will help settle the soil around the roots and promote good root-to-soil contact.
- Mulch and maintain moisture: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plant, such as wood chips or compost. This will help conserve soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, throughout the growing season.
Propagation and Care: Division and Ideal Growing Conditions
Propagation of Anemone ‘Honorine Jobert’ can be achieved through division in spring or root cuttings are taken in late winter. However, it is important to note that this cultivar may be slow to emerge in spring and establish, especially from the older, woody rootstock. Nevertheless, it can eventually spread through rhizomes to form large colonies.
For optimal growth, Anemone ‘Honorine Jobert’ should be planted in part shade locations with protection from strong winds. The foliage is susceptible to burning in hot, dry, sunny summer conditions. It is crucial to avoid wet, poorly drained soils, particularly during winter. Adding winter mulch in cold climates can provide additional protection. While the plant may take time to establish, it tends to naturalize well in ideal growing conditions, thanks to its spreading rhizomes.
Additional Notes:
- Anemone ‘Honorine Jobert’ is renowned for its late-season interest in the garden, providing a stunning display when many other plants have finished blooming.
- This cultivar is a delightful addition to borders, woodland gardens, and cottage gardens, offering a touch of elegance and grace.
- It is important to monitor for potential pests such as slugs, blister beetles, and flea beetles, although they are not commonly problematic.
- Deer and rabbits typically avoid feeding on Anemone ‘Honorine Jobert’ due to its unpalatable nature.
- Individuals with sensitive skin should be cautious of contact with the sap, as it may cause irritation.
- The genus name “Anemone” is derived from the Greek word “anemos,” meaning wind, which alludes to the plant’s tendency to sway in the wind.
