Pasqueflower
Plant of the Week July 10, 2023
Pasqueflower (Pulsatilla vulgaris)
By Holly Bieda, Anoka County Master Gardener
Pasqueflower (Pulsatilla vulgaris)
By Holly Bieda, Anoka County Master Gardener
The pasqueflower is native to the prairies of North America, Europe, and Asia. It thrives in full sun and is drought-tolerant. It is hardy in Zones 4-8. The plants grow about 10 inches tall with soft, feathery seed heads. All parts of the plant are toxic if eaten and may cause an upset stomach.
The pretty purple flowers are one of the first blooms every spring and are great for pollinators. The foliage is equally attractive, as well as the feathery seed heads. Both the flowers and the seed heads rise above the mound of the plant.
About ten years ago, I planted a pasqueflower in front of a perennial bed in a sunny spot near the back of our yard. This brutally dry area is last on my list to water or weed, but this little prairie native thrives on neglect. It comes back bigger and thicker each year. It has become one of the plants I look forward to every spring.
Additional information can be found at:
https://seasonwatch.umn.edu/pasqueflower
https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/pasque-flower-pulsatilla-vulgaris/