Arctic violet

Pulsatilla vernalis
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
(unranked):	Angiosperms
(unranked):	Eudicots
Order:	Ranunculales
Family:	Ranunculaceae
Genus:	Pulsatilla
Species:	P. vernalis
Binomial name
Pulsatilla vernalis (L.) Mill.

Pulsatilla vernalis (spring pasqueflower, arctic violet, lady of the snows) is a species of flowering plant in the family Ranunculaceae, native to mountainous habitats in Europe. Growing to 10 cm (4 in) high and wide, it is a semi-evergreen perennial with hairy, divided leaves. In early spring it bears anemone-like flowers which are up to 6 cm (2 in) in diameter, white flushed with violet on the outer surface of the petals, and prominent yellow stamens.

The specific epithet vernalis means "of spring".

In cultivation it is suitable for an alpine garden or alpine house, with sharply drained soil in full sun. Though very hardy it dislikes winter wetness. It has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

It is the county flower of Oppland, Norway and is depicted in the county coat of arms. It is also the county flower of Härjedalen, Sweden and Södra Karelen, Finland.

...
Wikipedia