Pulsatilla vulgaris

The pasque flower, Pulsatilla vulgaris, is a beautiful spring flower, traditionally a sign that Easter has arrived. The silky buds open to light purple, cup-shaped flowers which mature to develop a star shape. As the flowers develop, ferny foliage starts to appear at the base of the stems, which continues to look good after the flowering season has finished.

Grow Pulsatilla vulgaris in well-drained soil in full sun. It takes a while to become established and resents being disurbed. If growing in the right conditions, it will self-seed, so leave the seedheads to allow colonies to build up. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it its prestigious Award of Garden Merit (AGM).