• The soft lavender blooms of the Prairie Crocus (Pulsatilla nuttalliana) emerge from a patch of dry grass and leaf litter, glowing in the early spring sunlight. Each silky, bell-shaped flower is covered in fine white hairs, with golden yellow centers full of stamens drawing attention to the heart of the blossoms. Their fuzzy stems and sepals shimmer in the light, a sure sign of the prairie waking up after winter.
  • A lush cluster of Prairie Crocus (Pulsatilla nuttalliana) blossoms rises from the surrounding dry grasses. The violet petals curve down around the golden centers, some flowers still tightly closed while others open to the sky. The fine hairs covering the stems and buds catch the light, and the scene captures the crocus blooming in dense groups - an early spring showpiece.
  • The finely divided, feathery leaves of the Prairie Crocus (Pulsatilla nuttalliana) spread out low to the ground, their silvery hairs giving them a soft, frosted appearance. A single purple bud sits poised above the foliage, ready to bloom. The surrounding grass hints at the prairie setting where these early bloomers thrive.
  • Tall, whimsical seed heads of the Prairie Crocus (Pulsatilla nuttalliana) catch the evening light, creating a glowing halo effect. The once-vibrant purple petals are long gone, replaced by feathery seed plumes radiating from each stem. The delicate, green foliage remains below, while the seed heads sway like tiny fireworks bursting over the summer prairie.
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Wild About Flowers

Pulsatilla nuttalliana - Prairie Crocus

Pulsatilla nuttalliana - Prairie Crocus

$5.00 CAD
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Prairie Crocus is one of the earliest signs of spring, with delicate, mildly sweet-scented, lavender to pale purple, cup-shaped flowers emerging before its finely divided, fuzzy green leaves. Blooming just as winter fades, it provides an essential early nectar source for native bees and butterflies, while its soft, feathery seed heads add visual interest well into summer. Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, Prairie Crocus is an excellent choice for self-sustaining landscapes, rock gardens, sunny exposed gardens, and naturalized plantings, bringing resilience and beauty to both urban and rural spaces.

As one of the earliest blooming wildflowers, Prairie Crocus thrives in full sun and undisturbed grasslands, commonly found in prairies, open slopes, and dry, open woodlands. Its toxic sap and hairy foliage make it unpalatable to deer and other herbivores, ensuring high grazing resistance.

Bloom Times & Plant Sizes

Important Information - The "Bloom Period" is an indicator of the time period within which the wildflowers will bloom and does not describe the time period that a single plant will bloom.  The "Sizes" listed are intended to be a general guideline to consult during plant selection. - Plant growth and bloom times will vary depending on geographical location & individual site conditions.

Edible & Medicinal Info Disclaimer

The Edible & Medicinal information on this site is for informational purposes only and should not be acted on without thorough research and professional guidance. We are not responsible for any adverse effects resulting from the use of or misidentification of plants.

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Plant Specifics

Seeds Per Pack

Seeds Per Package: 25

Light Conditions

  • Sun
  • Part Shade

Soil Conditions

  • Dry
  • Sandy
  • Gravelly
  • Well Drained
  • Loam
  • Clay

Height

  • Under 12"
  • 12" - 24"

Width

  • Under 12"

Bloom Colour

  • Purple

Month of Bloom

  • April
  • May

Vigorousness

  • Slow
  • Moderate

Deer Resistance

  • High

Features

  • Butterflies
  • Bees
  • Fragrant
  • Attractive Seed Heads
  • Urban Spaces
  • Rural Spaces
  • Medicinal Properties
  • Toxic or Posionous Parts

Chinook Exposure

  • Fully Exposed

Distribution Info

​Native to BC, AB, SK, MB, and ON, extending into the northern U.S.. Found in prairies, grasslands, open woodlands, and foothills, thriving in well-drained, sandy, or loamy soils.

Traditional Edible & Medicinal Info

Indigenous groups used Pulsatilla nuttalliana primarily for medicinal purposes, often as infusions or poultices to treat pain, swelling, and respiratory ailments.

⚠️ This species is toxic, especially when fresh, and can cause skin irritation and digestive issues if ingested.