Pasque Flower
Pulsatilla vulgaris 'Rubra'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
10 inches
Width
9 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Low once established
Humidity
Prefers well-drained, dry to moderate humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested; skin irritant
The Story
Plant Bio
Pulsatilla vulgaris 'Rubra' is a perennial herbaceous plant distinguished by its finely divided, silky foliage and bell-shaped, deep red flowers that bloom in early spring. This cultivar is notable for its vibrant red blossoms and soft, hairy stems, making it an attractive addition to rock gardens and borders with well-drained soil.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds on the soil surface and press gently.
- Keep soil moist until germination, about 2-3 weeks.
- Plant in well-drained, loamy soil in full sun.
- Space plants 12 inches apart for airflow.
- Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Divide mature clumps every 3-4 years in early spring.
Pro Tip
Sow seeds outdoors in fall for natural stratification and better germination.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
- Remove spent flowers to encourage rebloom
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t disturb roots when dividing
- Never use heavy clay soil without amendments
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Pasque Flower questions
What zones can Pasque Flower grow in?
Pasque Flower is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Pasque Flower deer resistant?
Yes — Pasque Flower is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Pasque Flower bloom?
Pasque Flower typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Pasque Flower need full sun?
Pasque Flower does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Pasque Flower drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Pasque Flower handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Pasque Flower with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
