About
Primula veris (Pr), the common cowslip, is a semi-evergreen perennial to 25 cm with a rosette of distinctly stalked, oblong-ovate leaves and upright stems bearing umbels of nodding, bell-shaped, perfumed, rich-yellow flowers 1.5 cm across. A charming and beloved native wildflower for a sunny meadow, lawn or well-drained border.
About the genus
Primula are herbaceous or semi-evergreen perennials forming rosettes of simple leaves and producing salver-shaped, bell-shaped or funnel-shaped flowers, solitary or in umbels or whorls on erect stems. An enormously varied genus ranging from compact alpines to stately border perennials.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing, North-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
Native toEurope, W Asia
FragranceFlower
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