Greek anemone (Anemone blanda) is also known as Grecian windflower. The plant is sometimes called winter windflower.

It is a member of the Ranunculus family. This species is native to Greece, Turkey, and certain parts of Europe, particularly the southern Balkan peninsula.

The frost hardy plant is a tuberous rooted bulb or perennial. The bulbs are often listed in the fall bulb catalogs. Generally, Greek anemone is hardy to zone six. While some other anemones are perennials, this one is tuberous.

This plant is about six to eight inches in height. It forms a clump.

The leaves are lobed. Borne in crowded tufts, the foliage is fern-like.

The star-like blossoms resemble rounded daisies.

Growing Greek Anemone

Greek anemone can be forced into bloom indoors in pots. The plant does best in part shade in a moist soil, although it does reasonably in full sun.

This prefers a well drained soil. It tends to spread by seed very readily.

These bulbs are an excellent choice for pollinator gardens because the flowers are a good source of nectar and pollen. These flowers are a favorite among bumblebees.

Greek anemone was one of the bulbs that were grown in American gardens in Colonial times, which makes it an heirloom plant.

There is a related species (Anemone tomentosa) that provides much more nectar and pollen than Greek anemone.

Generally, Greek anemones bloom in early spring. Depending on the location, this can be from February to April.

Although the flower color can vary widely, the species typically will have deep blue blooms. However, they can also be pinkish, or white, according to the variety being grown.

These flowers are six inches tall or less. The blossoms are flat headed and resemble daisies. Flowering lasts for about ten days or so.

Gardeners will find these spring bulbs are readily available. Most of the bulb catalog I checked had a mix of different flower colors.

John Scheepers has a mix as well as two varieties. Blue Shades seems to be a favorite.

In addition, American Meadows also sells Blue shades anemone. Gardeners will also find this at Brecks.

Brecks has a particularly lovely variety called Violet Star Grecian windflower. The gorgeous blooms are amethyst-violet.

One of my favorites is Charmer Grecian wildflower. It has beautiful pink blooms.