The state flower of South Dakota, eastern pasque flower is one of the earliest blooming wildflowers in the Midwest; its hairy fernlike flower stems often emerge when snow is still on the ground and bloom even before the foliage has completely formed. The plant eventually reaches 8 – 12 inches and the erect flowers, one to each plant, are violet blue, yellow, or white. The name Pasque is derived from the Old French word for Easter and patens means spreading. Plant in well-drained soil in full sun to part shade – best suited to rock gardens or prairies.