Hubei Anemone
Eriocapitella hupehensis · Japanese ThimbleweedUSDA | Grow Zone
5-8Outdoors all year in zones 5 to 8. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 32°F.
- Light
- Partial to full shade
- Water
- When top inch is dry
- Humidity
- 40-70%
- Temperature
- 60-75°F
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 2-3 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide
- Pets
- Mildly toxic to pets
Eriocapitella hupehensis, commonly known as Hubei Anemone or Japanese Thimbleweed, is a stunning perennial native to East Asia. Its delicate flowers and lush foliage make it a favorite among shade garden enthusiasts.
Ask Vesper about Hubei Anemone
Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 32°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 2-3 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide
- Plant apart
- 12-24 in
- Frost
- Half hardy: light frost only
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Eriocapitella hupehensis prefers consistently moist soil, especially during its active growing season in spring and summer.
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks, adjusting frequency based on humidity and temperature. In winter, reduce watering to once every 2-3 weeks. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering can cause wilting and browning leaf edges.
Light
This plant thrives in partial shade to full shade, ideally receiving 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight daily.
Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light may hinder growth. A location under taller plants or trees can provide the necessary shade, ensuring it receives filtered light.
Soil
Eriocapitella hupehensis prefers well-draining, rich soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
A mix of loamy soil with organic matter, such as compost or peat, is ideal. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Humidity
This plant enjoys moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40-70%.
To increase humidity, consider misting the leaves or placing a humidifier nearby. Signs of low humidity stress include leaf curling and browning tips.
Temperature
Eriocapitella hupehensis thrives in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) and is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
It can tolerate brief periods of cold but should be protected from frost. In extreme heat, provide shade to prevent stress.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 during the growing season, applying every 4-6 weeks.
In fall, reduce feeding as the plant prepares for dormancy. Signs of nutrient deficiency include stunted growth and pale leaves.
Pruning
Prune Eriocapitella hupehensis in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Remove any dead or damaged stems and spent flowers to encourage new growth. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to prevent disease transmission.
Repotting
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound, indicated by roots growing out of the drainage holes.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Carefully remove the plant from its pot, loosen the roots, and place it in fresh soil, ensuring it is at the same depth as before.
Propagation
Propagation can be achieved through division or seeds.
For division, carefully dig up the plant in early spring or fall, separating the root clumps and replanting them immediately. For seed propagation, collect seeds in late summer and sow them in a cold frame or pot, keeping the soil moist until germination occurs, which may take several weeks.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture and reduce watering frequency. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer if nutrient deficiency is suspected.
Wilting
Why it happens
Under-watering or extreme heat.
How to fix it
Increase watering frequency and provide shade during hot weather.
Root rot
Why it happens
Poor drainage or over-watering.
How to fix it
Ensure the pot has drainage holes and reduce watering. If root rot is suspected, remove the plant from the soil, trim away affected roots, and repot in fresh soil.
Leaf curling
Why it happens
Low humidity or pest infestation.
How to fix it
Increase humidity levels and inspect for pests like spider mites. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap.
Browning leaf tips
Why it happens
Low humidity or under-watering.
How to fix it
Increase humidity through misting or a humidifier, and adjust watering schedule to keep soil consistently moist.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, focus on watering regularly as the plant begins to grow. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer to support new growth.
Summer
During summer, ensure the plant is shaded from intense sunlight and maintain consistent moisture in the soil. Monitor for pests.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering as the plant prepares for dormancy. Prune back any dead or damaged stems to promote healthy growth next spring.
Winter
In winter, water less frequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Protect the plant from frost and extreme cold.
Toxicity & Safety
Eriocapitella hupehensis is considered mildly toxic. Ingestion of any part of the plant may cause gastrointestinal upset in pets and children, including symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.
Good to know
How often should I water my Hubei Anemone?
Water your Hubei Anemone when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks during the growing season, and reduce to every 2-3 weeks in winter.
What type of soil is best for Japanese Thimbleweed?
Japanese Thimbleweed prefers well-draining, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Adding organic matter like compost can enhance soil quality.
Why are my Eriocapitella hupehensis leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves can indicate over-watering or nutrient deficiency. Check soil moisture and consider fertilizing if nutrient levels are low.
Can I propagate Hubei Anemone from seeds?
Yes, you can propagate Hubei Anemone from seeds. Collect seeds in late summer and sow them in a cold frame, keeping the soil moist until germination.
What pests affect Japanese Thimbleweed?
Common pests include aphids and spider mites. Regularly inspect your plant and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
What temperature range is ideal for Eriocapitella hupehensis?
Eriocapitella hupehensis thrives in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) and is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
How do I increase humidity for my Hubei Anemone?
Increase humidity by misting the leaves, using a humidifier, or placing a tray of water near the plant to create a more humid environment.
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