Overview
Pulsatilla vulgaris is a clump forming alpine rockery in the genus Pulsatilla, part of the Ranunculaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Pulsatilla vulgaris grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Suggested uses include patio and container plants, gravel garden and rock garden. It is native to Europe.
About
Pulsatilla vulgaris is a perennial that grows up to 20 cm tall, producing a cluster of finely divided basal leaves that have a silky texture in their early stages. The flowers, measuring 5-9 cm across, may stand upright or droop slightly, displaying a violet hue. After flowering, the plant develops silky fruiting heads.
About the genus
Pulsatilla consists of herbaceous perennials that create clusters of finely divided foliage. They produce individual, hairy flowers that are either bell- or cup-shaped, which are succeeded by seed heads adorned with silky plumes.
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, North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Pulsatilla vulgaris size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Alpine Rockery
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants, Gravel garden, Rock garden
- Native to
- Europe
- Toxicity
- Can cause mild stomach upset if ingested. Wear gloves and wash hands after handling
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Pulsatilla vulgaris
- Cultivation
- Grow in very well-drained soil in full sun; suitable for rock garden, scree or alpine bed. Resents disturbance and can be hard to establish
- Pruning
- No pruning required
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed or take root cuttings in the winter
- Pest resistance
- Slugs may eat the flowers
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Pulsatilla vulgaris?
Grow in very well-drained soil in full sun; suitable for rock garden, scree or alpine bed. Resents disturbance and can be hard to establish.
Where is the best place to plant Pulsatilla vulgaris?
Pulsatilla vulgaris prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Pulsatilla vulgaris need?
Pulsatilla vulgaris 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.
How do I prune Pulsatilla vulgaris?
No pruning required.
How big does Pulsatilla vulgaris grow?
Pulsatilla vulgaris reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Pulsatilla vulgaris hardy in the UK?
Pulsatilla vulgaris has a UK hardiness rating of H5.
How do I propagate Pulsatilla vulgaris?
Propagate by seed or take root cuttings in the winter.
Is Pulsatilla vulgaris toxic?
Can cause mild stomach upset if ingested. Wear gloves and wash hands after handling.