The Small Pasque Flower is a striking early spring wildflower known for its vibrant purple, silky flowers and feathery seed heads. It is native to the grasslands and meadows of Serbia and plays a crucial role as an early nectar source for pollinators, particularly bees. In an agroecological context, it serves as a valuable component of meadow guilds, contributing to biodiversity and soil health. Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine for its saponin content, although caution is advised due to its potential toxicity. This plant thrives in well-drained, alkaline soils and is well-suited for rock gardens and naturalized meadow plantings, where it can enhance ecosystem resilience and beauty.
Growing Details
Prepare soil by ensuring good drainage and maintaining an alkaline pH. Mulch with organic matter to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include other meadow species like yarrow and clover, which enhance biodiversity. Avoid overwatering as it prefers dry conditions. Harvest seeds when the feathery seed heads appear, and store in a cool, dry place for propagation.
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Pulsatilla pratensis</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location:
applicable geo region: Native to Serbian grasslands and meadows.
language used: en
Flowering:
?
Harvest:
?
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(0/5)
edible uses:
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally used for respiratory ailments and skin conditions. Contains saponins and other active compounds. Use with caution due to potential toxicity; should not be ingested without professional guidance.
health concerns: Potentially toxic if ingested. Handle with care and consult a professional before use.
other uses:
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Pulsatilla pratensis</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Pulsatilla pratensis
common names: Small Pasque Flower, Meadow Pasque Flower
family: Ranunculaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Pulsatilla
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.1 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: High
Deciduous / Evergreen: Deciduous
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 15ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 20ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 15ยฐC / -20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity: Low
light demands: High
root type: Shallow
frost tender:
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(5/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 10 years
succession:
growth rate: Medium
max height: 0.25 m
max width: 0.2 m
soil preference:
pH preference:
flower type:
growth details: Prepare soil by ensuring good drainage and maintaining an alkaline pH. Mulch with organic matter to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include other meadow species like yarrow and clover, which enhance biodiversity. Avoid overwatering as it prefers dry conditions. Harvest seeds when the feathery seed heads appear, and store in a cool, dry place for propagation.
Potential Disturbances: Generally pest-resistant, but can be affected by slugs and snails. Use natural deterrents like crushed eggshells or copper tape. Encourage beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations.
Growth Timeline
Recipes Using This Plant
Animals Interacting With This Plant
Permanent Link
Scan this QR code for a permanent link to this plant:
Loading comments...