Pasque Flower
Pulsatilla vulgaris (syn. Anemone pulsatilla)
Pasque Flower is a beautiful early spring perennial with silky, bell-shaped purple flowers and feathery silver-grey foliage. Named for blooming near Easter, it's one of the first herbaceous flowers to herald spring's arrival.
Ranunculaceae (Buttercup family)
Early to mid-spring (March-May)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: star of bethlehems and nymphaeas also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The name "Pasque" comes from Old French for Easter, marking the resurrection of Christ and celebrations of new life with spring's warmth. Legend says Pasque Flowers sprang from blood-soaked battlegrounds of Romans or Danes, which is why they often appear on ancient barrows and boundary banks. In Greek mythology, they grew from Aphrodite's tears as she wept over the wounded Adonis. The juice from purple sepals was traditionally used to color Easter eggs in Europe. The name Pulsatilla means "to vibrate or shake," referring to plume-like seed heads swaying in breezes.Shop Our Floral Collection
Transform your space with our curated selection of designer floral throw pillows
Visit Full StoreBotanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to light shade
Water
Moderate moisture in spring; tolerates drier conditions once established; excellent drainage essential
Soil
Well-drained, Gritty, Humusy, Fertile, Calcareous (alkaline) preferred, Rocky or sandy
Expert Growing Tips
Requires excellent drainage - root rot is the main killer
Best in cool climates; struggles in hot, humid summers
Sow seeds when fresh or stratify over winter
Resents root disturbance - establish in permanent location
If transplanting, cut back flowers and buds; will rebloom in 4 weeks
Both flowers and seed heads are ornamental
RHS Award of Garden Merit winner
Can be deer-prone - may need protection
County flower of Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire, England
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Rock gardens and alpine beds
- Front of perennial borders
- Spring gardens with bulbs
- Scree beds
- Wildflower gardens
- Cottage gardens
- Naturalized plantings
Traditional Uses
- Used in traditional European medicine for various ailments
- Homeopathic preparations for sensitive individuals
- Contains toxic compounds - should not be used without expert guidance
- All parts poisonous if ingested raw
- Can cause allergic skin reactions when touched
- Historical uses include sedatives, painkillers, and eye remedies
- Not recommended for modern home use
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Pasque Flower
why is it called pasque flower?
Pasque Flower is named from the Old French word 'Pasque' meaning Easter, because it blooms near Easter time and symbolizes the resurrection and new life of spring.
is pasque flower poisonous?
Yes, all parts of Pasque Flower are poisonous if ingested and can cause allergic skin reactions when touched. Wear gloves when handling and keep away from children and pets.
when do pasque flowers bloom?
Pasque Flowers bloom in early to mid-spring (March-May), often emerging while snow is still on the ground, making them one of the first spring perennials to flower.
are pasque flowers hard to grow?
Pasque Flowers need excellent drainage and can be challenging in hot, humid climates. They thrive in cool regions with well-drained, gritty soil and resent root disturbance once established.
what does pasque flower symbolize?
Pasque Flower symbolizes resurrection, new life, and spring's arrival. In mythology, they grew from Aphrodite's tears and from blood-soaked battlegrounds, representing remembrance.
do pasque flowers have seed heads?
Yes, Pasque Flowers develop beautiful, fluffy, plume-like seed heads that resemble those of clematis. These ornamental seed heads remain on the plant for weeks.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
Share This Flower
Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Star of Bethlehem
Ornithogalum umbellatum
Star of Bethlehem is a spring-blooming bulbous perennial with distinctive white star-shaped flowers striped green on the outside. Native to Europe and the Mediterranean, it symbolizes hope, purity, and guidance.
Nymphaea
Nymphaea spp. (Water Lily)
Nymphaea, commonly known as water lily, produces stunning floating flowers on pond surfaces. These aquatic beauties symbolize purity, rebirth, enlightenment, and spiritual awakening across many cultures.
Asclepias
Asclepias speciosa (and other spp.)
Asclepias, commonly known as milkweed, is essential for monarch butterfly survival and features clusters of intricate flowers. It symbolizes transformation, renewal, and hope while serving as a vital native wildflower.