PRIMULA
PRIMULA
Symbols of spring, prima rosa, appearing in the UK in woodlands, hedgebanks and grassy places and originating mainly in the northern hemisphere with almost half of species coming from the Himalayas.
Genus of about 400 species of mainly herbaceous perennials, some woody based and evergreen.
In groups of upright candelabras, the very diverse primrose/polyantha and the auriculas which include those with centres of white meal displayed as show auriculas.
Represented in the UK by the common P. vulgaris, the cowslip, P. veris (which makes a potent wine), a hybrid between them, false oxlip and the true oxlip. P. elatoir existing in a small area of boulder clay in East Anglia.
Around Yorkshire and Cumbria in damp, peaty places P. farinosa, the bird's-eye primrose grows and to the north on the north and north-west coast of Scotland the similar P. scotica is native.
Full Plant Details - Sun/Soil & other attributes
-
Good to know
Pastel shades of orange, yellow, pink and mauve. Thrives in consistently moist soil at bog edges and near streams and water. Not suitable for standing in water. -
Pests & Diseases
Aphids, red spider mite, vine weevil, slugs, viruses, grey mould(Botrytis) -
Place of origin
Garden origin. RHS Harlow Carr, Yorkshire -
Semi-evergreenKeeps some of its foliage all year, and will drop some leaves as well.Oblong to spoon-shaped leaves to 25cm (10in) long
-
Cottage garden
-
Fully hardy
-
Height
1m (39in) -
Spread
50cm (20in)
-
Herbaceous
-
Hardy - very cold winter
Hardy in all of UK and northern Europe. Plant can possibly withstand temperatures down to -20°C (-4°F) -
Fertile moist well-drained soilHumus-rich
-
Neutral to acid soil
-
Wet or boggy soil
-
Partial shade
Will tolerate full sun if soil remains moist -
Mature Size1m (39in)
50cm (20in)
View Planting Tips and Care Advice
View Planting Combinations
