Pasque Flower, Eastern pasqueflower, Cutleaf anemone

Pulsatilla patens

Physical Characteristics

Pulsatilla patens is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from March to May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

N. Europe to Siberia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Appetizer Digestive Diuretic Emmenagogue Expectorant Irritant Oxytoxic Stimulant Appetizer, digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, stimulant[61, 207, 213]. Use of the plant lessens sexual excitement. It does not diminish sexual power but rather strengthens it by lessening morbid excitement[207]. A drug derived from the chopped whole plant induces vomiting and irritation of the kidneys[213]. In high doses it acts as a depressant on the central nervous system and the heart[213]. A decoction of the plant has been used to speed delivery of a child[257]. A poultice of the fresh crushed leaves has been applied in the treatment of rheumatism and neuralgia[257]. A volatile oil contained in the plant is used as an irritant[212].

Known Hazards

Although no mention has been seen for this species, at least one member of the genus is slightly toxic, the toxins being dissipated by heat or by drying the plant[65].