About
An evergreen perennial, ususally grown as an annual, forming an upright rosette of leaves. In winter and spring it produces domed clusters of pink to pale purple, saucer-shaped flowers. Many larger cultivars have been developed form this species, with colours including red, blue and white.
About the genus
Primula are herbaceous or semi-evergreen perennials, forming a basal rosette of simple leaves, with salver-shaped or bell-shaped flowers which may be solitary or carried in an umbel or in whorls on an erect stem
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeHouseplants, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitTufted
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
Native toChina
ToxicityCAUTION skin allergen. Wear gloves or other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a cool greenhouse or as a houseplant, in peat-free, loam-based potting compost with added extra grit and leaf mould. Position in bright, filtered light. In growth water freely and apply a half-strength balanced liquid fertiliser every week
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free