Cowslip
Primula veris
Also known as
Primrose
Photo by CandideUK (All rights reserved)
Full Sun
Moderate care
Moderate watering
Half-hardy
4a-9b
USDA zone
-34°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
50cm | Max | 10cm |
10cm | Min |
5 years to reach maturity
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
This plant has a strong fragrance
More images of Cowslip
Cowslip Overview
This sweet fragrant wildflower was once common throughout the UK, and could be found in hedgerows, ancient woodlands and traditional hay meadows. In Spring it produces upright stems bearing bright yellow bell shaped nodding flowers which stand out above their foliage and look amazing when planted on mass.
Common problems with Cowslip
How to harvest Cowslip
Collect young flowers from areas that haven't been contaminated with passing dogs, field sprays, etc.
How to propagate Cowslip
Cuttings
Take root basal cutting in Spring, Select strong shoots about 10cm long and cut as close to the base as possible. Remove lower leaves and pinch out the top. Sink cuttings upto 2.5cm deep around the edge onf a pot containing potting compost. Water in and mist cuttings reguarly. Provide bottom heat.
Seed
Allow plants to self seed and lift 1 year old seedlings the following year.
Division
Lift and divide clumps after the flowers have faded in Spring, replant straight away in damp semi shaded locations.
Special features of Cowslip
Attractive flowers
Attracts useful insects
Other uses of Cowslip
This low maintenance plant suits being included wildflower meadows, wildlife gardens, woodland settings, informal cottage designs as well as containers and beds and borders. Once used in herbal medicines as a sedative, the flowers were more commonly collected for making Cowslip wine or added to salads or mixed with other herbs to stuff meats.
Flowers to Sow Outside in October
Direct sow these during October where you want them to flower next year!
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