Pulsatilla vulgaris

Pulsatilla vulgaris is native to the meadows of continental Europe and the British Isles. The foliage is soft and fuzzy - absolutely stunning when backlit by the sun. The bright purple flowers give way to tufts of seed heads, which are equally ornamental. Flowers emerge later than P. patens.

Also known as Easter flower, this plant blooms in the early spring. Some European countries even use the juice of the petals to make a dye for Easter eggs! We'll have to test that one out...