Along my flower photography journey, there have been many new discoveries – especially in early spring. So like the Dwarf Iris – which have been such a pleasant surprise, the discovery of Pasque Flowers has been a delight. Another brave little flower that endures the unpredictable spring elements. It’s another trooper for sure!
Some History on the Pasque Flower Name
Doing some research I’ve since learned more about them.
They are a species of herbaceous perennial wildflowers native to the meadows and prairies of North America, Europe, and Asia.
“Derived from the Hebrew word for Passover, “pasakh”, the common name pasque flower refers to the Easter flowering period, in the spring.”
With the time of year they bloom and knowing that in Italian (my second language) Pasqua meant Easter, I made the connection.
I suppose I connected the dots before knowing their actual naming history. Regardless, they are beautiful flowers to see around Easter.
About the Flowers and Unusual Foliage
They are certainly unique. Pasque flowers grow relatively low to the ground like other “early risers” in spring. So it’s another lay in the dirt moment to get the shot photo op. And I’m all too happy to oblige!
The flowers themselves come in various shades of purples and pinks. The flower exteriors are covered in silken, feathery fibers. They have these vibrant yellow centers which draws bees to them in search of some early pollen.
However, it’s their foliage that I find rather fascinating. The plant foliage is this fuzzy gray-green. With the shiny white fibers, the plant looks like it is covered in delicate little feather-like tendrils, And when the sun catches them in the morning light, they are so pretty!! You feel compelled to touch them to feel the silken texture. They generally are seen growing in clusters but every now and again you see one growing alone like the image below.
After they Bloom…
After they complete their bloom cycle, what comes next is equally as fascinating. They evolve into wispy, feathery seed-heads which are so cool! Looking like crazy hair-dos, Phyliss Diller hair comes to mind! For those unfamiliar, Google her name and you’ll see what I mean. I’ll save photos of the crazy looking Pasque Flower seed heads for another post 🙂
Too see more “early risers” visit the Spring Collections page.