Overview
Pulsatilla alpina subsp. sulphurea is a herbaceous perennial in the genus Pulsatilla, part of the Ranunculaceae family. It typically grows around 0.15–0.3 metres tall. Pulsatilla alpina subsp. sulphurea grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and neutral and alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include rock gardens, alpine gardens and borders. It is native to Europe and SW Asia.
About
Pulsatilla alpina subsp. sulphurea is an herbaceous perennial that reaches 0.15–0.3 metres and is adapted to exposed, alpine conditions. It flowers in spring from March to May. The plant prefers well-drained, rocky or sandy soils on a south-facing site and tolerates neutral to alkaline pH. Take care when handling, as ingestion can cause mild stomach upset and gloves are advised.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Pulsatilla alpina
About the genus
Pulsatilla is a genus that contains about 40 species of herbaceous perennial plants native to meadows and prairies of North America, Europe, and Asia. Common names include pasque flower, wind flower, prairie crocus, Easter flower, and meadow anemone. Several species are valued ornamentals because of their finely-dissected leaves, solitary bell-shaped flowers, and plumed seed heads.
Wikipedia contributors, "Pulsatilla", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Pulsatilla
In the garden
Pulsatilla alpina subsp. sulphurea is a low-growing herbaceous perennial native to mountain regions of Europe and south‑west Asia. It is suited to exposed, alpine conditions and produces its seasonally important flowers between March and May. Plants remain modest in height at 0.15–0.3 metres, making them appropriate where early spring colour is needed without overwhelming neighbours. Position plants in full sun or partial shade on a south-facing site where soil is sharply drained — stony, rocky or sandy substrates suit it best. It favours neutral to alkaline soils and performs with dry to medium soil moisture; avoid heavy, waterlogged ground. The UK hardiness rating H7 corresponds to fully hardy, so it tolerates cold winters when sited where frost and wind do not concentrate moisture around the crown. Use it in rock gardens, alpine screes or at the front of borders where a small spring-flowering perennial is required. Wear gloves and wash hands after handling because ingestion can cause mild stomach upset. Given its preference for well-drained, drier soils, plant on a slight mound or in gritty mix so water does not pool at the crown over winter.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Pulsatilla
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, rocky, sandy
- Soil pH
- neutral, alkaline
- Soil moisture
- dry to medium
- Aspect
- south-facing
- Exposure
- exposed, alpine conditions
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Pulsatilla alpina subsp. sulphurea size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- herbaceous perennial
- Height
- 0.15–0.3 metres
- Suggested uses
- rock gardens, alpine gardens, borders
- Native to
- Europe, SW Asia
- Toxicity
- Can cause mild stomach upset if ingested. Wear gloves and wash hands after handling
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Pulsatilla alpina subsp. sulphurea
- Cultivation
- Prefers well-drained soil in a sunny position; avoid waterlogging; suitable for alpine or rock garden settings
- Pruning
- Remove spent flowers to encourage tidiness; cut back foliage after flowering if desired
- Propagation
- Seed, division
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Pulsatilla alpina subsp. sulphurea?
Prefers well-drained soil in a sunny position; avoid waterlogging; suitable for alpine or rock garden settings.
Where is the best place to plant Pulsatilla alpina subsp. sulphurea?
Pulsatilla alpina subsp. sulphurea prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and alpine conditions positions.
What soil does Pulsatilla alpina subsp. sulphurea need?
Pulsatilla alpina subsp. sulphurea is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including well-drained, rocky and sandy. It prefers neutral and alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays dry to medium.
How do I prune Pulsatilla alpina subsp. sulphurea?
Remove spent flowers to encourage tidiness; cut back foliage after flowering if desired.
How big does Pulsatilla alpina subsp. sulphurea grow?
Pulsatilla alpina subsp. sulphurea reaches a height of 0.15–0.3 metres.
Is Pulsatilla alpina subsp. sulphurea hardy in the UK?
Pulsatilla alpina subsp. sulphurea has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Pulsatilla alpina subsp. sulphurea?
Seed, division.
Is Pulsatilla alpina subsp. sulphurea toxic?
Can cause mild stomach upset if ingested. Wear gloves and wash hands after handling.
