Primrose
Primula vulgaris
Also known as
Culver Keys, English Primrose
Primula vulgaris white to bright yellow by Mkronsteiner (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Full Sun
Easy care
Moderate watering
Frost Hardy
H7
RHS hardiness
-20°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
---|---|---|
30cm | Max | 40cm |
1cm | Min | 10cm |
3 years to reach maturity
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
This plant has a mild fragrance
More images of Primrose
Primrose Overview
There are about 500 species of rosette-forming, herbaceous perennials in the genus Primula, of which more than half originate from the Himalayas. They are valued for their ornamental flowers and have been cultivated and hybridised for centuries. This species, Primula vulgaris is commonly known as Primrose, it resides in the Primulaceae family and produces tongue-shaped leaves. This species has earnt a Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit. It is commonly seen in gardens for the attractive light yellow, sometimes white spring flowers. They are scented and measure between 2.5-3.5cm in diameter.
Common problems with Primrose
How to harvest Primrose
Flowers of the taller species can be cut for the vase. If flowers are left on the plants seeds can be harvested to be sown.
How to propagate Primrose
Division
Divide rosettes after flowering
Seed
Surface-sow seeds, they need light to germinate
Cuttings
Root basal cuttings in autumn or spring, take root cuttings while dormant in winter
Special features of Primrose
Indoor plant
Place in bright light but not direct sun
Pot plant
Watering is important, keep the soil moist
Attractive flowers
Attracts butterflies
Attracts useful insects
Attracts bees
Other uses of Primrose
Border, edging, mixed bed, fragrance, under shrubs, rock-gardens.
Winter Colour Plants – Top 20
Bring colour into winter by adding these plants into your gardening space.
Explore allSpring Flowering Perennials for Pollinators
These spring flowering perennials are perfect for attracting pollinating insects.
Explore all