About
Primula vulgaris (Pr/Prim), the primrose, is a rosette-forming, evergreen or semi-evergreen perennial about 20 cm tall with tongue-shaped, deeply veined, lime-green leaves and solitary, sweetly scented, pale-yellow flowers 2.5�3.5 cm across in early spring. One of Britain's most beloved native wildflowers � excellent naturalised in a woodland garden, shaded border or lawn edge.
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, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageSemi evergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Hanging basket, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
Native toEurope, W Asia
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow as biennials for bedding, in a container, in a woodland garden, rock garden or naturalised in grass. Favours a sheltered position in sun or partial shade. See primula cultivation
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or root basal cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, vine weevil, slugs, leaf and bud eelworms, leaf-mining flies and glasshouse red spider mite
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a leaf spot and grey moulds