Image for Prairie Crocus

Prairie Crocus

Scientific name

Pulsatilla patens

Description

The Prairie Crocus is a low growing perennial wildflower species that typically grows about 30 cm in height. This plant may also be known by the common name Eastern Pasqueflower. The stems are soft haired and leafless up to the flower. The leaves are hairy, fern like, stalked, and develop after the flower appears. The flowers are a blueish violet colour, about 9 cm wide, have six petals in two whorls, and bloom in the early spring. Prairie Crocus is usually one of the first flowers to bloom in the spring. The flowers are attractive to pollinator species like bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies.

Planting conditions

Prairie Crocus grows best in normal to dry conditions with full or partial sun exposure. It prefers well-drained, sandy or rocky soil type, with neutral pH level. It is tolerant of drought and dry soil once established. This wildflower may be naturally found in dry meadows, prairies, open forests, or rocky upland slopes.

Details

  • Plant height:
    • Max 1.5m
    • Max 2m
    • Max 3m
    • Any
  • Moisture level:
    • Dry
    • Normal
    • Moist
    • Drought Tolerant
  • Light conditions:
    • Full sun
    • Partial sun
  • Soil type:
    • Sandy
    • Loamy
    • Rocky
  • pH:
    • Normal
  • Depth:
    • Wildflower
  • Eco Zone:
    • 4a
    • 4b
    • 5a
    • 5b
    • 6a
    • 6b
    • 7a
    • 7b
    • 8a
    • 8b
  • Plant type:
    • Wildflower
  • Height:
    • 30 cm
  • Spread:
    • 50 cm