What does pasqueflower mean?
A pasqueflower is a spring-flowering plant of the genus Pulsatilla, a group of herbaceous perennials known for finely divided foliage and conspicuous, often purple, bowl-shaped flowers. Some species are alpines, growing in mountain meadows and rocky habitats, while others are cultivated in rock gardens and specialist collections. The name is also used for the flower itself. Its appearance is especially associated with the approach of warmer weather: certain species flower around Easter, which accounts for the historical name. The term encompasses several related plants rather than one botanical species, and its precise referent depends on context. The European pasqueflower, Pulsatilla vulgaris, is the species most commonly associated with the name in British and European usage, whereas American pasqueflower usually denotes Pulsatilla ludoviciana. Pasqueflowers are valued not only for their distinctive flowers but also for their ability to emerge early in the season, often in exposed or cold environments.
nounAny of several herbaceous perennials in the genus Pulsatilla, bearing finely divided leaves and large, usually purple flowers. The term may also refer to the flower itself.
- Any of several plants in the genus Pulsatilla, especially the European pasqueflower, Pulsatilla vulgaris.
- The showy flower of a pasqueflower plant.
"A solitary pasqueflower opened above the dry grass in early spring."
"The garden centre specializes in rare alpine plants, including several varieties of pasqueflower."
"She pressed a purple pasqueflower between the pages of her botany book."
The regular plural takes -s and is used for both individual plants and the flowers themselves.
"Several pasqueflowers were growing beside the footpath."
The pasqueflower's name preserves an old connection with spring: its flowering around Easter inspired the word.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pasqueflower come from?
English pasqueflower is a compound of pasque and flower. The word pasque entered English from Old French, ultimately from Latin pascha and Greek paskha, reflecting a term associated with Easter and the Passover. The compound was applied because the plants characteristically flower near Easter in much of their range.
Related word forms
How pasqueflower is actually used
The word is neutral in register and is primarily a botanical or horticultural term. In regional common-name usage, European pasqueflower generally refers to Pulsatilla vulgaris, while American pasqueflower commonly refers to Pulsatilla ludoviciana.