Pasque flower
Pulsatilla vulgaris · Ranunculaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant pasque flower: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- Spring (March to May)
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm in height
- Growth
- Slow
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- Central and Eastern Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained, chalky or neutral
Care
Exposure
Plant your pasque flower in full sun or partial shade for generous flowering. It appreciates open, well-ventilated locations sheltered from strong winds that could damage its delicate velvety purple flowers.
Soil
Prepare well-drained, light soil that is preferably chalky or neutral. Avoid waterlogging which causes root rot. Adding gravel or sand improves natural drainage.
Watering
Water moderately during the growing and flowering period in spring. Once established, pasque flower tolerates drought well; reduce watering in summer and autumn to encourage dormancy.
Fertilizing
Minimal fertilizer is needed. In autumn, add very light compost or potting soil around the base. Avoid rich fertilizers which promote excessive foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and maintenance
No actual pruning required; simply leave dried foliage until spring to protect the crown. Remove faded flower stems after flowering. This plant demands little intervention once established.
Diseases and pests
Pasque flower is generally healthy. The main risk is root rot from excess moisture. Ensure excellent drainage and avoid humid, confined atmospheres.
Did you know?
Pasque flower was once used in traditional herbal medicine, but remains toxic if ingested: any consumption is dangerous. Its Latin name 'Pulsatilla' means 'shaken by the wind,' as its beautiful purple flowers that bloom in April-May sway gracefully at the slightest breeze. It has appeared in European alpine gardens for centuries, a testament to the continent's botanical heritage.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- Grecian windflowerAnemone blanda
- Lenten roseHelleborus orientalis
- Hubei AnemoneEriocapitella hupehensis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.