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A Fabulous Planting for Wet Soils: Candelabra Primrose and Fern

Perennial Combinations, Plant Combinations, Flowerbeds Ideas, Spring Borders, Summer Borders

Garden Ideas, Border ideas, Perennial Planting, Perennial combination, Spring Borders, Summer Borders, Bog Gardens, Shade gardens,  Candelabra primroses, Candelabra Primulas, Ostrich Fern.

Transforming a wet and damp section of your garden into a breathtaking spectacle is simpler than you might think. Enter the colorful parade of Candelabra Primroses combined with the elegant Ostrich Fern, a duo that thrives in moisture-rich soils.

Candelabra Primroses encompass several beautiful species, including Primula japonica, pulverulenta, bulleyana, and beesiana. These Primulas are distinguishable by their multi-tiered whirls of vibrant blooms held aloft on tall stems, reminiscent of a candlestick. Whether it’s the fiery reds of P. japonica or the delicate yellows of P. beesiana, these plants add a splash of color to boggy areas. Native to damp meadows and riverbanks, they are perfectly suited for places where other plants may struggle.

Complementing the vivaciousness of the Candelabra Primroses is the Ostrich Fern. With its tall, arching fronds, this fern adds height, texture, and a deep green backdrop that makes the Primrose colors pop even more. Native to North America, the Ostrich Fern thrives in wet soils, especially near streams or ponds.

Planting these two together creates a visual feast. The fern’s graceful fronds form a lush carpet punctuated by the fiery blossoms of the Primroses. Not only does this combination tackle challenging wet soil conditions, but it also offers a delightful, season-long show that can become a garden centerpiece.

Remember, while both these plants thrive in moisture, ensure the area has decent water drainage to prevent root rot. With minimal care, this combo will reward you with a vibrant display year after year.

Here is a selection of popular Candelabra Primulas. Most plants have been granted the prestigious Award of Garden Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society for their outstanding qualities. They are all low maintenance, virtually disease free and deer resistant. Pick those you like!

Garden Information

Hardiness 5 - 8
Heat Zones 5 - 8
Climate Zones 3, 4, 5, 6, 17
Exposure Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Late)
Summer (Early)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Average
Soil Type Loam
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Moisture Retentive, Poorly Drained
Characteristics Plant of Merit, Showy
Tolerance Deer, Wet Soil
Attracts Butterflies
Landscaping Ideas Beds And Borders, Ponds And Streams
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage

Plants In This Garden

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Primula (Primrose)
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While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.

Garden Information

Hardiness 5 - 8
Heat Zones 5 - 8
Climate Zones 3, 4, 5, 6, 17
Exposure Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Late)
Summer (Early)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Average
Soil Type Loam
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Moisture Retentive, Poorly Drained
Characteristics Plant of Merit, Showy
Tolerance Deer, Wet Soil
Attracts Butterflies
Landscaping Ideas Beds And Borders, Ponds And Streams
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage
How Many Plants
Do I Need?
Explore Great Plant Combination Ideas
Primula (Primrose)
Get Garden Design Ideas
Search Gardens

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Matteuccia struthiopteris (Ostrich Fern) N/A Buy Plants
Primula x bulleesiana (Candelabra Primrose) N/A Buy Plants
Primula japonica (Japanese Primrose) N/A Buy Plants
Primula pulverulenta (Candelabra Primrose) N/A Buy Plants
Primula bulleyana (Candelabra Primrose) N/A Buy Plants
Primula beesiana (Candelabra Primrose) N/A Buy Plants

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