About
Primula elatior (Pr), the oxlip, is a semi-evergreen perennial to 30 cm with a rosette of ovate to oblong leaves and erect stems bearing one-sided clusters of dark-eyed, yellow flowers 2.5 cm across in spring. A beautiful native wildflower for a cool, moist, semi-shaded woodland garden or border.
About the genus
Primula are herbaceous or semi-evergreen perennials forming basal rosettes of simple leaves, with salver-shaped or bell-shaped flowers borne singly or in umbels or whorls on upright stems. A vast genus ranging from tiny alpines to large candelabra and Asiatic border plants.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow
Native toEurope, SW Asia
Care notes
CultivationGrow as biennials for bedding and in a container or rock garden. Favours a sheltered position in sun or partial shade
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or root basal cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, vine weevil, slugs, leaf and bud eelworms and glasshouse red spider mite
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a leaf spot and grey moulds