Pasqueflower
VU

Pasqueflower

Pulsatilla vulgaris

UnknownNTEUNTEU

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pulsatilla_vulgaris

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

The Pasqueflower faces severe decline across its European range due to agricultural intensification and the abandonment of traditional grazing practices that maintained its chalk grassland habitat. Nitrogen deposition from atmospheric pollution has fundamentally altered soil chemistry, favoring competitive grasses over this calcicole species. Urban development and quarrying have directly destroyed many historical populations, while habitat fragmentation prevents natural recolonization of suitable sites.

Threat summary

Habitat

Pasqueflower inhabits short, species-rich calcareous grasslands, particularly chalk downs and limestone hills across Europe. It requires well-drained, alkaline soils with low nutrient levels, typically maintained by traditional sheep or rabbit grazing that prevents scrubland encroachment.

TERRESTRIAL· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Pasqueflower classified as Vulnerable?
Pasqueflower is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. The Pasqueflower faces severe decline across its European range due to agricultural intensification and the abandonment of traditional grazing practices that maintained its chalk grassland habitat. Nitrogen deposition from atmospheric pollution has fundamentally altered soil chemistry, favoring competitive grasses over this calcicole species. Urban development and quarrying have directly destroyed many historical populations, while habitat fragmentation prevents natural recolonization of suitable sites.
Where does Pasqueflower live?
Pasqueflower occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Pasqueflower?
The main threats to Pasqueflower are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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