The Hardiest, Most Vigorous Fall Anemone

Robustissima Anemone (Anemone tomentosa 'Robustissima'), the grapeleaf anemone, is the toughest and most cold-hardy of the fall-blooming anemones, the best choice for Minnesota gardeners who've struggled to overwinter Japanese types. Silvery-pink, golden-eyed flowers wave on tall stems above bold, grape-like foliage from late summer into fall, and the vigorous, spreading roots quickly fill a space. Deer-resistant and pollinator-friendly, it's a dependable late-season performer for Eden Prairie, Plymouth, and Eagan.

Landscape Uses

Use Robustissima in part-shade to sunny borders, woodland edges, and naturalized areas where its vigorous spread is welcome. It's excellent for filling larger spaces and pairs well with grasses, hostas, and other fall bloomers; flowers are great for cutting.

Best Time to Plant

Plant in spring or early fall. This anemone is hardier than most and establishes readily in Minnesota.

How to Plant

Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Set the crown level with the soil, backfill, water in well, and mulch 2–3 inches deep. Give it room, as it spreads to form a colony.

Watering

First Year: Water deeply 1–2 times per week to establish the roots.
After Year One: Water during dry spells. It's more drought tolerant than other fall anemones once established.
Drip Irrigation: A drip line keeps moisture even during establishment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose Robustissima over other anemones?
It's the hardiest and most vigorous fall anemone, the most reliable choice for colder Minnesota gardens.

Does it spread?
Yes, vigorously by rhizomes, so give it space or site it where spreading is welcome.

Is it hardy in Minnesota?
Yes, it's hardy to Zone 3 and reliable statewide.

Is it deer resistant?
Yes, deer tend to avoid anemones.

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Pair Robustissima with our other fall anemones, ornamental grasses, and asters for a vigorous, pollinator-friendly late-season display.