Anemone HARLEQUIN® 'Pastel'

HARLEQUIN™ ‘Pastel’ is a compact Japanese anemone with a tight clump of foliage and abundant mid-pink, semi-double flowers centered with yellow. Terra Nova Nurseries introduced this selection in 2023; its short base and bouquet-branching stems bring late-season color to containers and the front of a border. ## Flowers and form The breeder lists a foliage height of about 10 inches, a spread near 12 inches, and flower stems up to 18 inches. Bloom begins in late July and continues toward frost, with exact timing set by climate. The flowers make a notable display above the compact base without requiring the taller placement used for many Japanese anemones. Terra Nova lists USDA zones 4–9, pink flowers, green foliage, clumping habit, and moderate growth. ## Siting Plant in fertile, humus-rich soil that retains moisture while draining well. Full sun or partial shade is suitable; in hot sites, some afternoon shade helps maintain moisture. The [RHS guide](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/anemone/japanese/growing-guide) gives similar group-level advice for Japanese anemones and cautions that many cultivars spread by roots. For this exact selection, Terra Nova describes an exceptionally tight base, and Phoenix Perennials likewise notes a compact clump. ## Cultivar and sources ‘Pastel’ is part of the HARLEQUIN™ series. The [Terra Nova profile](https://www.terranovanurseries.com/product/anemone-harlequin-pastel/) confirms its dimensions, months of bloom, exposure, and growth traits; the [2023 introduction listing](https://www.terranovanurseries.com/about-us/introductions/) records its introduction year. [Phoenix Perennials](https://www.phoenixperennials.com/product/anemone-harlequin-pastel-hybrid-anemone-ranunculaceae-the-buttercup-family/) independently describes its flowers, compact form, season, and growing conditions. No patent or EU grant is listed on Terra Nova’s profile. ## Maintenance Water newly planted anemones regularly and keep the root zone from drying out during active growth. Container-grown plants need more frequent checks as their limited mix dries faster. Mulch lightly with compost each spring to conserve moisture. Leave faded stems over winter if desired, then cut away dead stems and foliage in early spring before new shoots appear.