Yellow Alpine Anemone
Pulsatilla alpina subsp. apiifolia (syn. Pulsatilla alpina subsp. sulphurea)
Yellow Alpine Anemone is a stunning mountain wildflower with sulphur-yellow bell-shaped blooms that often open while still under snow cover. This early bloomer symbolizes renewal, anticipation, and the golden promise of spring in alpine regions.
Ranunculaceae (Buttercup family)
Early spring to early summer (April-June), often blooming under snow
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Cultural Significance
The Yellow Alpine Anemone earns its common name "Lady of the Snows" by blooming while still under snow cover, symbolizing the golden promise of spring. The name "Pasque" refers to Easter/Passover, marking its early flowering time. Its subspecies name "apiifolia" refers to its celery-like leaves, while "sulphurea" describes its distinctive sulphur-yellow color. In Switzerland, all Pulsatilla species are protected by law, reflecting their conservation importance and cultural value.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun
Water
Moderate; requires sharp drainage, protect from excessive winter wet
Soil
Well-drained, Gritty, Acidic, Infertile, Rocky
Expert Growing Tips
Grows at altitudes from 1,200 to 2,700 meters in the wild
One of the earliest spring bloomers, often flowering under snow
Requires very gritty, moist but sharply drained soil
Cannot survive on fertile ground; disappears if fertilized
Resents root disturbance; plant when small and leave undisturbed
Followed by attractive silky-plumed seedheads
Protected by law in Switzerland
Received Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit
Subspecies apiifolia has yellow flowers and grows on acid soils
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Alpine gardens and rock gardens
- Front of perennial borders
- Containers and troughs
- Flower borders and beds
- Naturalized in meadow gardens
- Alpine plant collections
Traditional Uses
- All parts are toxic and may cause stomach upset if ingested
- Contains protoanemonin which can cause skin irritation
- Not recommended for medicinal use
- Handle with care and wash hands after contact
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Yellow Alpine Anemone
why is it called lady of the snows?
It's called Lady of the Snows because the flowers often open while still under snow cover — blooming in early spring before the snow fully melts.
when do alpine anemones bloom?
Alpine anemones bloom very early, from April to June — they're among the first flowers to appear in alpine meadows, sometimes while snow is still present.
how do you grow yellow alpine anemone?
Grow yellow alpine anemone in very gritty, sharply drained soil in full sun — it resents root disturbance and cannot survive in fertile, fertilized ground.
is pulsatilla alpina protected?
Yes, in Switzerland all Pulsatilla species are protected by law — this reflects their conservation importance and vulnerable alpine habitat.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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