About
A clump-forming herbaceous perennial to 20cm, with deeply dissected, woolly basal leaves and erect deep violet-purple flowers 5-8cm wide, followed by silky fruiting heads.
About the genus
Pulsatilla are herbaceous perennials forming clumps of finely dissected leaves, with solitary, hairy bell-shaped or cup-shaped flowers followed by silky-plumed seed-heads
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, Gravel garden, Rock garden
Native toW Carpathians
ToxicityCan cause mild stomach upset if ingested. Wear gloves and wash hands after handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, very well-drained soil in full sun. It resents root disturbance and may be difficult to establish, so plant when small and leave undisturbed. Can also be grown in pots in an alpine house
PruningLeave faded flowers as seedheads are an attractive feature
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in pots in an open frame as soon as seed is ripe. Propagate by taking root cuttings in winter
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free