How to Grow Pasque Flower 'Mrs. Van der Elst'
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Pasque Flower 'Mrs. Van der Elst'
Anemone pulsatilla 'Mrs. Van der Elst'
flowerA stunning perennial cultivar of Pasque Flower featuring large, double lavender-pink blooms with silky petals that emerge in early spring. This variety is prized for its full, pompom-like flowers and feathery seed heads that extend the ornamental season. 'Mrs. Van der Elst' is a European native that thrives in well-drained, sunny locations.
When should you plant Pasque Flower 'Mrs. Van der Elst' in your zone?
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Example Pasque Flower 'Mrs. Van der Elst' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Pasque Flower 'Mrs. Van der Elst'
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Pasque Flower 'Mrs. Van der Elst' blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-8, with best performance in cooler climates
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Seedling
3-4 weeksTiny seedlings emerge with thin cotyledons; develop first true leaves with fine texture
Keep soil moist but not soggy; provide bright indirect light; avoid transplanting young seedlings
Pre-bloom
2-3 weeksIn late winter/early spring, fuzzy flower buds emerge from the foliage before leaves fully expand
Protect emerging buds from extreme frost with cold frame if needed; no fertilizer required
Flowering
3-4 weeksLarge double lavender-pink flowers (2-3 inches) open; silky petals create pompom effect; fuzzy sepals visible at base
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage further blooms; stake if winds are strong; provide afternoon shade in hot climates
Seed Maturation
6-8 weeksFlowers transition to ornamental feathery seed heads; foliage begins to yellow and die back by early summer
Leave seed heads for visual interest and natural self-seeding; cease watering as plant enters dormancy
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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and
Hand-pick; apply copper tape; use beer traps; remove debris where they hide
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Ensure excellent air circulation; remove affected foliage; avoid overhead watering; apply sulfur spray if needed
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Space plants for airflow; avoid wetting foliage; apply neem oil or sulfur fungicide in severe cases
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Spray with strong water jet; introduce ladybugs; apply insecticidal soap if infestation is severe
Uses
Traditional Herbal Tea
CulinaryHistorically, Pasque Flower petals and leaves have been used in European folk medicine to prepare herbal infusions and teas for various remedies. Modern use is limited due to mild toxicity in fresh plant material, though historical medicinal preparation methods rendered it safer. [source]
Herbal Remedy
MedicinalEuropean herbalists traditionally used Pasque Flower extract for nervous tension, insomnia, and reproductive health, though modern scientific validation is limited. The plant contains compounds with antispasmodic and calming properties in homeopathic preparations. [source]
Cut Flowers & Dried Arrangements
HouseholdThe striking double flowers are superb in spring flower arrangements, and the feathery seed heads are prized for dried floral work and cottage garden displays. The delicate texture adds elegance to both fresh and dried botanical arrangements. [source]
Botanical Art & Photography
CraftThe unique double-flower form and silky texture make 'Mrs. Van der Elst' a favorite subject for botanical illustration, pressed-flower art, and garden photography. The progression from flower to decorative seed head offers multiple artistic opportunities. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeEarly spring Pasque Flowers provide nectar and pollen for emerging bees and other pollinators after winter dormancy. The feathery seed heads also offer nesting material and shelter for beneficial insects. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut stems for fresh bouquets in the morning when flowers are newly opened; stems are short (6-8 inches) and delicate. For seed collection, allow seed heads to mature and fully fluff (4-6 weeks after flowering), then snip entire heads and store in paper bags in a cool, dry place. Seeds can be sown fresh in autumn or cold-stratified for spring sowing.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 'Mrs. Van der Elst' is a double-flowered cultivar bred in the Netherlands; the full blooms contain more petals than the wild species, creating a dramatic pompom effect that was once fashionable in European alpine gardens.
- 🌱 The feathery seed heads (pappus) are equipped with hairs that act like parachutes, allowing seeds to disperse on the wind over considerable distances—a characteristic that earned the plant its folk name 'Wind Flower.'
- 🌱 Pasque Flower is one of the earliest spring bloomers in temperate climates and was traditionally used to mark the timing of Easter (Pasque = Easter in French and German), making it a symbol of spring's arrival.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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