Pulsatilla vulgaris 'Rubra'

I have long been enamoured with pulsatillas, but just didn't realize how easy they are to grow. Provide they have reasonable drainage, P. vulgaris has proven to be a wonderful garden perennial here in our area, although colder climates suit them even better. In early spring, the red-violet flowers top the exquisite dissected hairy foliage. After flowering, the feathery clematis-like seed heads appear, with an ornamental value at least equal to the flowers. Expect pulsatilla to go dormant by mid summer, giving room for a layered fall planting for late season interest.