Overview
Primula elatior is a plant with a clump-forming habit in the genus Primula, part of the Primulaceae family, with semi-evergreen foliage. Primula elatior grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include woodland plantings, cottage gardens, boggy pond edges and damp borders.
About
Primula elatior, the oxlip, is a species of flowering plant in the family Primulaceae, native to nutrient-poor and calcium-rich damp woods and meadows throughout Europe, with northern borders in Denmark and southern parts of Sweden, eastwards to the Altai Mountains and on the Kola Peninsula in Russia, and westwards in the British Isles.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Primula elatior
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Primula
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Primula elatior size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Clump-forming
- Foliage
- Semi-evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Woodland plantings, cottage gardens, boggy pond edges, damp borders
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Primula elatior
- Propagation
- Division
- Pest resistance
- Vine weevil larvae in containers
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Primula elatior?
Primula elatior prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Primula elatior need?
Primula elatior grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Primula elatior hardy in the UK?
Primula elatior has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Primula elatior?
Division.
More in the Primula genus
- Primula 'Orange With Yellow'
- Primula auricula 'Erica' (Au/A)
- Primula auricula 'Forest Pretty Woman' (Au/d)
- Primula auricula 'Forest Red Mist' (Au/d)
- Primula auricula 'Forest Scarlet Woman' (Au/d)
- Primula auricula 'Geldersome Green' (Au/S)
- Primula auricula 'Geordie' (Au/A)
- Primula auricula 'Gloire de Dijon' (Au/S)