Pulsatilla vulgaris

Pasque flower

For me the emergence of a pasque flower is the true harbringer of spring. Deriving its common name from the French word for Easter (Paques) in reference to its bloom time, this plant has long held a place in my heart.

The blooms first appear atop strong, thick stems covered in silky, luminescent hairs that frame the violet-purple blooms beautifully. Like matryoshka (Russian nesting dolls), another bounty is revealed within -- short golden yellow stamens that cry out 'spring'. These flowers will last for over a month, but eventually fade and give way to ferny grayish-green foliage.

But wait, the show isn't over yet! Once the flowers pass, large, feathery seed heads begin to form that last well into mid-summer. Covered with a coat of fine, silky hairs, they liven up any border.

If you're looking to involve your children in the garden, this is a must-have plant. They'll happily caress the silky smooth flowers in wonderment.

Pasque flowers seem to prefer limestone and extremely well-drained sites. They're happiest planted flush with a concrete walk or driveway, and if they're really happy you'll find an occasional seedling in a similar place.

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(c) 2007 Christopher P. Lindsey