Pulsatilla vernalis
lady of the snows
P. vernalis is a semi-evergreen perennial forming a clump to 10cm in height, with finely divided leaves and bell-shaped white flowers 6cm in width, nodding in bud, later upward-facing, followed by silky seed-heads
Other common names
shaggy windflowerSynonyms
Anemone sulphurea L.Anemone alpina var. sulphurea (L.) DC.
see moreAnemone vernalis
Pulsatilla alpina subsp. sulphurea (L.) Asch. et Graebn.
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Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cmTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0–0.1 metreGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | Grey Silver | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Exposed Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Ranunculaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Potentially harmful
- Can cause mild stomach upset if ingested. Wear gloves and wash hands after handling
- Genus
Pulsatilla are herbaceous perennials forming clumps of finely dissected leaves, with solitary, hairy bell-shaped or cup-shaped flowers followed by silky-plumed seed-heads
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe, N Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in very gritty, moist but sharply drained soil in full sun. Protect from excessive winter wet. It resents root disturbance and may be difficult to establish, so plant when small and leave undisturbed. Can also be grown in pots in an alpine house
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in pots in an open frame as soon as seed is ripe. Propagate by taking root cuttings in winter
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
- Gravel garden
- Rock garden
Pruning
Leave faded flowers as seedheads are an attractive feature
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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