Overview
Primula veris is a plant with a clump-forming habit in the genus Primula, part of the Primulaceae family, with semi-evergreen foliage. Primula veris 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 veris, the cowslip, common cowslip, or cowslip primrose, is a herbaceous perennial flowering plant in the primrose family Primulaceae. The species is native throughout most of temperate Europe and western Asia, and although absent from more northerly areas including much of northwest Scotland, it reappears in northernmost Sutherland and Orkney and in Scandinavia.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Primula veris
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 veris 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 veris
- Propagation
- Division
- Pest resistance
- Vine weevil larvae in containers
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Primula veris?
Primula veris prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Primula veris need?
Primula veris grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Primula veris hardy in the UK?
Primula veris 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 veris?
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)