How to Grow Pulsatilla Plants

Guide to Growing Pasque flower, Wind flower, and Anemone

Pulsatilla bloom in either spring or at the start of summer. They carry bell or cup shaped flowers, which may be red, yellow, white, purple, or bronze in colour.

Their size makes Pulsatilla ideal plants for use in rock gardens, or in dry stone wall gaps.

Pulsatilla vulgaris (Pasque Flower 'Papageno') by cliff1066™.

Some common names for Pulsatilla include Pasque Flower, Alpine Anemone and Spring Anemone.

Commonly Grown Pulsatilla Species Photographs and Plant Identification

Pulsatilla vulgaris

Pulsatilla vulgaris (Pasque flower), photograph by temporalata; CC.

Pulsatilla pratensis

Pulsatilla pratensis (Small Pasque Flower), photograph by Ann-Sophie Qvarnstrom; CC.

Pulsatilla vernalis

Pulsatilla vernalis (Spring Pasqueflower / Arctic Violet / Lady of the Snows), picture by John Game; CC.

How to Grow Pasque Flower and Other Pulsatilla

It is best to sow the seeds of Pulsatilla plant species such as Pasque Flower and Anemone outdoors. It is probably easier to grow them from cuttings.

They should be sown in the summer-time using fresh seeds into flats. These flats should be sank into the ground in a completely shaded part of the garden. The flats should then be covered in glass.

The germination of seeds should take from one to six months. At the end of autumn bring the flat indoors for the winter.

If seedlings have emerged, transplant them into the garden in the spring. If not, then replace the flat to its previous location and transplant any seedlings that emerge in the autumn.

Once ready, transplant the Pulsatilla seedlings (or perhaps use a plant bought from a garden center) at a distance of 20 to 30 cm (16 to 20 inches) apart. Locate in a sunny or afternoon shaded part of the garden.

The soil that the plants grow in should be rich and slightly alkaline.

Caring for Pulsatilla

It is important that Pulsatilla plants grow in moist soil, so water them regularly.

If you require more plants, then propagate by taking cuttings from shoot tips.

Common Questions

How many members does the Pulsatilla genus contain?

The Pulsatilla plant genus, the Pasque Flowers, has 33 species.

Do Pulsatilla members make a good garden or landscaping plant?

Pulsatilla are loved by gardeners for their early spring flowers and attractive seed heads, making them excellent additions to rock gardens or perennial borders.

Which Pulsatilla species are most frequently grown by gardeners?

One of the most popular species is Pulsatilla vulgaris, known for its silky purple flowers.

Are Pulsatilla plants fragrant?

No, Pulsatilla plants do not have a significant fragrance.

What is the perfect location to grow Pulsatilla?

Pulsatilla thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-drained, gritty soil. It is especially suited to rock gardens and borders.

Is Pulsatilla invasive in the USA, if so in which states?

Currently, the Pulsatilla genus is not considered invasive in the USA.

How do I remove Pulsatilla plants from my garden?

If you wish to remove Pulsatilla, they can be manually dug out. Ensure to remove the entire root system to prevent regrowth.

Summary

The Pulsatilla genus, part of the Ranunculaceae family, includes the plant species commonly known as Pasque flowers. These herbaceous perennials are admired for their silky, cup-shaped flowers and finely dissected, feathery foliage.

Pulsatilla thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained, gritty soil. They are often planted in the spring. These plants are perfect for rock gardens or borders, adding early spring color and unique seed heads for extended interest.

I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Pulsatilla plants. You may also enjoy the following Gardener's HQ growing guides: How to grow Anemone hupehensis, Levisticum,Iris plant, and Trollius plants.