Bicolor Anemone

These are the large-flowered velvety flowers that some think are the worlds most beautiful. The colors are truly startling, and this bag of bulbs is all one color combination--the lush red and white bi-color. These anemones, in all their colors, are the ones sold on the street in New York City and elsewhere in 'nosegays' when they bloom, along with violets.

'French' anemones can be planted fall or spring, and grow from small irregularly-shaped bulbs that look sort of like weathered wood chips. Put them into semi-shady spots, and they'll be up in no time. They quickly form short little plants, and then these spectacular 3 to 4-inch flowers on stems of about 10'.

If you've never grown them, give them a try. Your success will depend on where you plant. Be sure it's never too hot, and never too dry. They need good drainage, but insist on a moist, somewhat shaded spot.