Primula

Botanical Name

Primula vulgaris

Origins

Primula vulgaris is native to western and southern Europe, northwest Africa, and southwest Asia.

Season Availability

Plant in autumn or winter to flower in late winter and spring. Will flower 8-12 weeks after planting.

Description

Herbaceous plant with basal rosette of leaves with delicate, 5-petalled flowers produced from the centre of the plant.

Colour

Primula are most common in white, yellow, pinks, purples and some bicolour.

Growing Conditions

Highly versatile plant that can be grown in sun, shade or semi-shade. Use it also to create colour tubs or troughs on a patio. The flowers may be damaged by heavy rain. Protect plants from strong drying winds.

Care Instructions

Remove old flower heads as they fade and wilt to keep plants looking clean and encourage new flowers to grow. Primula love to drink so water regularly at the roots as water on older flowers will cause them to rot. Fertilise with a soluble plant food once a month.