PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates cool spring sunlight, avoid intense midday summer sun to prevent foliage scorch
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging as the plant is susceptible to root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -20°C; prefers cool spring temperatures and enters summer dormancy during heatwaves above 25°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Basal, deeply divided, fuzzy gray-green foliage forming low rosettes
- Flower: Solitary purple, pink, or white blooms with bright yellow stamens, 5–7 cm in diameter
- Stem: Erect, densely fuzzy stems holding flowers above the basal foliage
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during flowering; reduce watering as foliage dies back for summer dormancy
Fertilization
Apply diluted balanced fertilizer once at emergence. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote flowering without excessive foliage growth
Eggshell powder topdress：Sprinkle finely ground, fully dried eggshells around the plant base in early spring to improve soil drainage and add calcium; avoid direct contact with foliagePruning
- Deadhead spent blooms promptly to maintain a tidy garden appearance
- Remove yellowing foliage after flowering as the plant enters summer dormancy
- Divide overcrowded clumps every 3–4 years in early spring to promote vigorous growth
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains protoanemonin which irritates the digestive tract and mucous membranes
Humans: Ingestion causes mild oral burning, nausea, or diarrhea if consumed in large quantities; contact may irritate skin
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes anticipation and new beginnings due to its early spring bloom timing
Usage: Ornamental for rock gardens, alpine troughs, and cold-climate wildflower meadows
