Overview

Pulsatilla violacea is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Pulsatilla, part of the Ranunculaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Pulsatilla violacea grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include rock garden, alpine bed, gravel garden and patio and container plants.

About

Pulsatilla violacea is a clump-forming cultivar of the Pulsatilla genus, which comprises herbaceous perennials with finely divided foliage. This deciduous plant produces individual, hairy, bell- or cup-shaped flowers in spring and summer, followed by seed heads with silky plumes. It thrives in full sun on well-drained soils such as chalk, loam, or sand, and tolerates a range of soil pH levels from acid to alkaline. Suitable for rock gardens, alpine beds, gravel gardens, and containers, it is hardy to UK zone H5 and benefits from watering during establishment.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Pulsatilla

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Pulsatilla violacea size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Suggested uses
Rock garden, Alpine bed, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Pulsatilla violacea

Propagation
Seed sown as soon as ripe, Root cuttings in winter
Pest resistance
Slugs may eat the flowers
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Pulsatilla violacea?

Pulsatilla violacea prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Pulsatilla violacea need?

Pulsatilla violacea is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

Is Pulsatilla violacea hardy in the UK?

Pulsatilla violacea has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Pulsatilla violacea?

Seed sown as soon as ripe, Root cuttings in winter.

More in the Pulsatilla genus

Browse all Pulsatilla