Graceful anemone can fill many roles

One of the most prolific flowers in autumn gardens is the pretty Japanese anemone, which actually originated in China.

Named after the Greek word for "wind", the anemone species are traditionally strong-stemmed with showy flowers the Japanese anemone easily fits this description.

With glossy green foliage and flowers ranging in colour from purest white to soft rosy pinks, lavenders and even deep reds, Japanese anemones can grow to well over one metre tall, making them fabulous filler flowers. They also look good in front of shrubs, associated with evergreens, in cottage gardens and as borders.

Michaelmas daisies, especially the tall, mildew-free Aster novae-angliae, make excellent companions to anemones in rich shades of purple, pink and mauve. Or, for contrast, mix them among yellow and orange-hued chrysanthemums.

Varieties include single, semi-double, and fully double forms, all of which are relatively easily grown throughout New Zealand. They prefer slight shade and fertile, moist soil with plenty of organic matter mixed in, and good drainage. During winter, a mulch of light leaves or pea straw will help in frostier areas. After the plants have finished flowering, cut them to the ground and mulch the crowns with straw.

Propagation is by division in early spring or by root division in autumn. After planting, they may take a year or two to give a generous display, but will improve each year from then on.

Tips for division:

Japanese anemones spread by fibrous underground roots that send up new shoots from tiny buds. This makes them ideal for taking root cuttings in autumn and replanting the following autumn when the ground is moist, after either rain or a thorough watering.

Leave the parent plant in the ground and simply tease away some soil from the root fibres.

Using secateurs, cut the roots into 5cm lengths, ensuring there is a growth bud on section.

Lay the sections horizontally on a seed tray of gritty compost and cover with 1cm of sand.

Place the tray in a sheltered corner outside. New shoots will emerge the following spring. Leave until autumn, and then plant out.