Western Pasqueflower
Anemone occidentalis (syn. Pulsatilla occidentalis)
Western Pasqueflower is a spectacular alpine wildflower that blooms soon after snowmelt, producing large creamy-white flowers followed by showy feathery seed heads. It thrives in high mountain meadows and rocky slopes of the Pacific Northwest.
Ranunculaceae (Buttercup family)
Late spring to mid-summer (June-August, varies by elevation and snowmelt)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: white marsh marigolds and aethionemas also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Western Pasqueflower symbolizes the arrival of spring in high mountain areas, blooming almost immediately after snowmelt. The common name "pasqueflower" comes from the French word "Pasque" meaning Easter, as some species bloom around Easter time. "Towhead baby" refers to the fluffy white seed heads that resemble a child's blonde hair. Pulsatilla Pass in Banff National Park is named after this species. The dramatic transformation from delicate flowers to showy seed heads provides extended visual interest.Shop Our Floral Collection
Transform your space with our curated selection of designer floral throw pillows
Visit Full StoreBotanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun in alpine areas; tolerates partial shade at lower elevations
Water
Requires consistent moisture during growing season; excellent drainage essential; adapted to snowmelt conditions
Soil
Well-drained, Rocky, Sandy, Gravelly, Acidic to neutral
Expert Growing Tips
Extremely difficult to cultivate outside native range
Requires cold stratification and specific alpine conditions
Plant emerges soon after snowmelt
Flowers followed by spectacular feathery seed heads
Seeds have long silky plume-like hairs
Short growing season in nature
Best appreciated in natural alpine settings
All parts contain toxic compounds; do not ingest
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Alpine and rock gardens
- Native plant gardens
- Trough gardens
- Wildflower gardens
- Mountain landscape gardens
Traditional Uses
- Fresh stems and seeds used traditionally by Native Americans as analgesics, anxiolytics, and sedatives
- Plant contains ranunculin and protoanemonin (toxic irritants)
- Can be fatal to domestic animals, especially sheep
- Should never be consumed by humans
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Western Pasqueflower
When does Western Pasqueflower bloom?
Western Pasqueflower blooms soon after snowmelt in late spring to mid-summer (June-August), depending on elevation. In alpine areas, it is often one of the first flowers to appear, sometimes blooming right at the edge of melting snowbanks.
Why is it called Pasqueflower?
The name "pasqueflower" comes from the French "Pasque" meaning Easter. Some pasqueflower species bloom around Easter time in lower elevations. Western Pasqueflower blooms later due to high elevation snowmelt.
What are the fluffy seed heads on Western Pasqueflower?
After flowering, Western Pasqueflower produces showy cylindrical seed heads with long silky feather-like hairs (plumes) attached to each seed. These fluffy heads persist for months and give rise to the common name "towhead baby," resembling blonde hair.
Can I grow Western Pasqueflower in my garden?
Western Pasqueflower is extremely difficult to grow outside its native alpine habitat. It requires specific cold temperatures, excellent drainage, and alpine conditions. It is best appreciated in its natural mountain settings during wildflower hikes.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
Share This Flower
Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
White Marsh Marigold
Caltha leptosepala
White Marsh Marigold is an early-blooming alpine perennial with glossy white cup-shaped flowers and heart-shaped leaves. This harbinger of spring appears at snowmelt edges in mountain wetlands.
Aethionema
Aethionema spp. (commonly A. grandiflorum)
Aethionema, commonly called Stone Cress, is a charming alpine perennial or sub-shrub producing delicate racemes of pink or white flowers above neat foliage. Perfect for rock gardens and alpine troughs.
Aethionema
Aethionema spp. (commonly A. grandiflorum)
Aethionema, commonly called Stone Cress, is a charming alpine perennial or sub-shrub producing delicate racemes of pink or white flowers above neat foliage. Perfect for rock gardens and alpine troughs.