Anemone coronaria ‘Mona Lisa Deep Blue’: Exquisite Beauty with Captivating Blue Blooms
Background: Anemone coronaria ‘Mona Lisa Deep Blue’ is a captivating hybrid variety derived from the Anemone coronaria species and a member of the Ranunculaceae family of plants. Carl Linnaeus (1707-1778), a Swedish botanist, named Anemone. It grows to about 40cm or 18in tall. The leaves are deeply lobed. They are almost parsley-like. With its stunning blue or violet flowers and dark center, this plant adds an exquisite touch to gardens, floral arrangements, and landscapes. Belonging to the Ranunculaceae family, ‘Mona Lisa Deep Blue’ is known for its rich cultural significance, remarkable beauty, and ease of cultivation.
Characteristics:
- Striking Flowers: The standout feature of Anemone coronaria ‘Mona Lisa Deep Blue’ is its magnificent flowers, which boast an intense blue or violet color. The blooms can reach a diameter of approximately 10cm or 4in, making them a captivating focal point in any setting.
- Contrasting Center: The flowers are complemented by a striking black center, adding depth and visual interest to their overall appearance.
- Herbaceous Perennial: ‘Mona Lisa Deep Blue’ is a herbaceous perennial, which means it dies back in winter and regrows from the same root system each year. This characteristic makes it a reliable addition to gardens, returning with its vibrant blooms season after season.
- Compact Growth: This variety typically grows to a height of about 45cm or 18in, creating a compact and manageable presence in the garden. Its upright stems and medium-green foliage provides an attractive backdrop for stunning flowers.
- Flowering Season: Anemone coronaria ‘Mona Lisa Deep Blue’ delights with its blossoms in the spring and continues to flower throughout the summer. Its extended blooming period ensures a prolonged display of its captivating blue flowers.
- Cut Flower Potential: Apart from enhancing gardens, ‘Mona Lisa Deep Blue’ is also cultivated as a cut flower due to its striking appearance. Its long-lasting blooms make it a popular choice for floral arrangements and bouquets, infusing them with a touch of elegance and beauty.
Growing Anemone coronaria ‘Mona Lisa Deep Blue’
Anemone coronaria ‘Mona Lisa Deep Blue’ is a beautiful hybrid variety of the Anemone coronaria species. Here are some guidelines on how to successfully grow this stunning plant:
Planting: Choose a sunny location to plant Anemone coronaria ‘Mona Lisa Deep Blue’. The soil should be light and sandy, providing good drainage for the plant. Prior to planting, soak the tubers in water to hydrate them. Plant the tubers about 5cm or 2in deep in the soil. Early autumn is the best time for planting, allowing the tubers to establish before the flowering season.
Soil and Watering: Anemone coronaria ‘Mona Lisa Deep Blue’ prefers well-draining soil, so ensure that the soil is not overly wet or waterlogged, especially during the dormant season. The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season, but be cautious not to overwater.
Hardiness: Anemone coronaria ‘Mona Lisa Deep Blue’ is generally hardy and can tolerate varying weather conditions. However, it is essential to ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot or waterlogging, particularly during winter dormancy.
Flowering: The beautiful blue or violet flowers of Anemone coronaria ‘Mona Lisa Deep Blue’ typically measure around 10cm or 4 inches in width. The flowers have a distinctive black center, adding to their allure. The plant blooms in spring and continues flowering through the summer, providing a vibrant display in your garden or as cut flowers.
Maintenance:
Anemone coronaria ‘Mona Lisa Deep Blue’ does not require extensive maintenance. Regular watering, deadheading spent flowers, and removing any damaged or diseased foliage are generally sufficient to keep the plant healthy and blooming. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
Cultural Significance of Anemone coronaria ‘Mona Lisa Deep Blue’:
Anemone coronaria has cultural significance in different regions and languages. In Arabic, it is known as Shaqa’iq An-Numan شقيقة النعمان, which could be associated with the Sumerian God of food Neaman, who died from hunting wounds. In Hebrew, it is called Kalanit Metzuya, meaning “the bride” and “common.” The red Anemone coronaria specifically holds the status of the national flower of the State of Israel.
By following these guidelines, you can successfully cultivate Anemone coronaria ‘Mona Lisa Deep Blue’ and enjoy its stunning blue or violet flowers in your garden or as cut flowers.
