The Pasque flower is blooming now and so silky furry that I can’t resist petting it when I go by. The huge purple blooms are full of golden stamens and very showy, but it is really the fuzz that attracts me. It reminds me of other furry plants: Clematis’ seed heads; the mullein growing around the barns that I use as bandages in a pinch as the leaves are not only thick & soft like blankets but stick together when wound around your finger; pussy willows of course; and some of the hardiest species tulips like T. biflora, whose papery tunics are furry inside. As I would want mine to be. I have read somewhere that fuzziness in plants is an adaptation to cold climates and that would make sense, though I think perhaps the Clematis’ seed fuzz is for dispersal.
About Judy Miller
USDA Hardiness Zone: 4b/5aLocation: rural; just south of British Columbia/Idaho borderGeographic type: foot of Black & Clifty Mountains (foothills of Rockies--the Wet Columbia Mountains in BC climate- speak)Soil type:acid sand (glacial lake bed)/coniferous forestExperience level: intermediate/professionalParticular interests: fragrant & edible plants, hardy bulbs, cottage gardening, alpines, peonies, penstemons & other blue flowers, primulas, antique & species roses & iris; nocturnal flowers Also: owner of Paradise Gardens Rare Plant Nursery
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