Anemone is a genus of about 120 species of flowering plants in buttercup family (Ranunculaceae).
Anemones are native to temperate zones. They are found in many European countries, in North America, and Japan.
Anemones bloom from early spring to late fall depending on the species.
Species of anemone can grow up to 1.2 meters (4 feet) tall.
Anemone are perennials that have basal leaves with long leaf-stems that can be upright or prostrate. Leaves are simple or compound with lobed, parted, or undivided leaf blades. The leaf margins are toothed or entire.
Flowers with 4–27 sepals are produced singly, in cymes of 2–9 flowers, or in umbels, above a cluster of leaf- or sepal-like bracts. Sepals may be pink.
The most widespread anemone flower meaning is anticipation. This is because the anemone flowers close up at night and open back up in the morning. Due to its wild nature, the flower specifically symbolizes relaxation and serves as a reminder to enjoy the moment in order to take in opportunities at the right time. According to the Victorian language of flowers, anemone flowers also signify fragility.
Anemones are often depicted in images of the Crucifixion or alongside the Virgin Mary as she mourns the death of Christ. It is said that the red anemones that are included in these paintings symbolize the blood that Christ shed.
The beautiful anemone flower also symbolizes:
• Protection against evil and ill wishes
• The approach of a rain storm when the petals close up
• Forsaken or forgotten love and affection
• Fairies and their magical world of twilight
• The death of a loved one or the loss of them to someone else
• Protection against disease and illness
• The arrival of the first spring winds
Many varieties are cultivated in gardens for their colorful flowers.
Anemone flowers have also become popular in arrangements for weddings and bridal bouquets.
The most popular anemone species is the Japanese anemone which blooms in autumn.
The name “anemone” is derived from Greek which means “windflower.” The name comes from the fact that the delicate flowers are blown open by the wind, which in turn blows away the dead petals as well.
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, Greek anemōnē means “daughter of the wind”, from ánemos the wind god + feminine patronymic suffix -ōnē (i.e. daughter). The Metamorphoses of Ovid tells that the plant was created by the goddess Venus when she sprinkled nectar on the blood of her dead lover Adonis.
Anemones are often depicted in various paintings by Impressionist painters including Matisse and Monet, who had deep appreciations for nature and flowers.
Anemones are closely related to Pasque flower (Pulsatilla) and Hepatica (Hepatica); some botanists include both of these genera within Anemone.