Pasque Flower (Anemone pulsatilla)

Pasque Flower

Anemone pulsatilla

It greets spring with fragile grace and resilience. Early-blooming perennial of wind-swept meadows; other names: pasqueflower.

Full sun
1/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Prefers full sun to light shade; blooms best with ample sunlight
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Watering Needs moderate water; avoid waterlogging
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Temperature Hardy to cold climates; tolerates temperate summers
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Characteristics

  • Leaves: Basal rosette, finely divided into narrow segments, covered with soft hairs;
  • Flowers: Solitary, bell-shaped, 5-7 cm diameter, violet to purple petals, yellow central stamens;
  • Bark: N/A herbaceous stems covered with silky hairs.
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Care Guide

Watering

Water moderately during active growth

Fertilization

Apply low-nitrogen balanced fertilizer once at start of growth. Feed lightly during early growth phase to encourage flowering

Crushed eggshell powder:Dry eggshells thoroughly, crush to fine powder; sprinkle around plant base to add calcium and improve soil structure
Pruning
  • Remove spent flowers to prevent self-seeding if undesired;
  • Cut back foliage after it dies down in summer;
  • Avoid disturbing roots;
  • Divide clumps only when necessary, in autumn;
  • Wear gloves to avoid contact irritation.
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: Toxic per ASPCA, ingestion causes vomiting, drooling, diarrhea; may cause neurologic signs

Humans: Contains protoanemonin, can cause skin irritation and gastrointestinal upset if ingested

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: In Europe, the pasque flower symbolizes Easter and rebirth due to its early spring bloom

Usage: - Ornamental early-spring garden plant; - Historical use in herbal medicine (now discouraged due to toxicity).