Pasque Flower

About the plant. Pasque flower (Pulsatilla vulgaris) is a perennial herb from Europe and southwestern Asia. It is one of the first perennials to bloom in spring, with bell-shaped purple flowers followed by silky, plume-like seedheads. It is also known as meadow anemone, wind flower, and Easter flower, and it was once classified as Anemone pulsatilla.

The plant grows from a thick rootstock and has finely divided leaves covered in soft, silvery hairs. It stays attractive through the summer, although the leaves may die back in late summer. Its flowers are described as violet-purple and silky on the undersides.

Sowing. Sow the seed when it is ripe, either directly in the garden or in small containers that you later transplant while the plants are still small. Plants may also self-seed.

Site. Choose a spot in full sun in well-drained soil. Partial shade is also listed as a light level the plant grows in.

Propagation. Besides seed, pasque flower can be grown from root cuttings or division, and one mature plant can be divided into 4 to 6 new plants.

Watering. Once established, the plant is quite drought tolerant. Plants need steady moisture in hot summer weather.

Feeding. Avoid heavy fertilizing.

Moving plants. Pasque flower does not handle root disturbance well, but it can be transplanted. Cut back all open flowers and large buds before moving, and the plant should regrow and rebloom in about 4 weeks. Plants are best left undisturbed once established.

Pests and disease. No serious insect or disease problems are listed for this plant.

Deer. Deer like this plant, so it may need protection in some areas.

Skin contact. Fresh sap can cause inflammation and blistering on the skin.

Toxicity to people. All parts of this plant are toxic and may cause severe pain and digestive upset if eaten. Keep children and anyone else from eating any part of the plant.

Skin. The sap can cause skin inflammation and blistering.