One of the earliest spring-flowering primroses, Primula allionii (Allioni's Primrose) is a small evergreen perennial forming a tight cushion of oval, mid-green, sticky leaves which are often hidden by the profusion of flowers. Blooming from late winter to mid-spring, tubular blossoms in shades of white, rose or mauve, usually with white centers, delight the eye. Long-lived, this primrose grows up to 3-4 in. tall (7-10 cm). It is one of the best subjects for the alpine house and is great for rock gardens and containers. USDA Zones: 4-8.

Perfect for poorly drained sites, Primula capitata (Round-Headed Himalayan Primrose) is a fascinating semi-evergreen perennial with dense, flattened clusters of tubular, deep violet-purple flowers from late spring to early fall. Lasting for up to 4 weeks, each eye-catching blossom is borne on erect stems frosted with silvery-white 'farina'. The contrast of the white stems with the dark violet flowers is very beautiful. The flowers arise from a rosette of oblong, pale green, mealy leaves. Grows up to 10-12 in. (25-30 cm). Native to India and Tibet, this perennial thrives in damp, shady environments and makes great cut flowers. Perfect for a moist rock garden or in light shade beside a stream or pond. USDA Zones: 4-8.

Robust, Primula denticulata, commonly known as Drumstick Primula, is a very attractive perennial with dense, rounded flowerheads, packed with many flat flowers in shades of pale lilac, rich purple, blue, pink or white. Borne on sturdy, erect stems above rosettes of lance-shaped, wrinkly leaves, they are adorned with a delicate, golden eye. Grows in clumps, up to 8-12 in. (20-30 cm). Native to China and the Himalayas, this perennial thrives in damp, shady environments where it brings in early to late spring, its brightly colored blossoms. USDA Zones: 2-8.

One of the largest and most fragrant of the primula species, Primula florindae (Giant Cowslip) is a long-lived perennial favored by many gardeners with damp and partially shaded gardens. Hardy and easy to grow, it bears large umbels of delicately scented, nodding, rich, sunny yellow flowers, trimmed with silver farina around the base. Filling the air with their heavenly honey perfume, they bloom from early to late summer and grow up to 4 ft. tall (120 cm). They increase year after year, each plant producing dozens of blooming stems, and naturalize to form cheerful swathes. Virtually disease-free and low maintenance. USDA Zones: 3-9.

Very hardy and floriferous, Primula marginata (Silver-Edged Primrose) is an evergreen perennial forming a rosette of beautiful silvery leaves with dramatic toothed edges lined with white farina, guaranteeing interest year-round. Blooming in late winter or early spring, elegant clusters of pleasantly scented, funnel-shaped, blue-lilac flowers adorned with a white heart, are produced on short stems above the foliage. Grows up to 6 in. tall (15 cm). One of the earliest primroses to bloom, this charming primula is perfect for the alpine house. Well-suited to the rock garden, but should be sheltered from excessive rain to prevent the decorative farina to be washed off. USDA Zone: 3-8.

A glorious garden plant, Primula sieboldii (Siebold Primrose) is a deciduous perennial with slender stems bearing umbels of purple, crimson, pink or white flowers. Blooming from late spring to early summer, the dainty blossoms rise above a basal rosette of pale green, wrinkled leaves covered in short hairs. This primrose quickly establishes by self-sowing, without becoming invasive, and looks particularly beautiful planted in informal drifts. Hardy, it tolerates subzero temperatures, goes dormant during periods of extreme heat or drought, and resists some neglect. One of the best woodland primulas. Makes great cut flowers with a long vase life too. Grows up to 12-18 in. (30-45 cm). USDA Zones: 4-8.

Fascinating with its unusual spires of tiny, pinkish-purple flowers, that are red at the top of the spike when in bud, Primula vialii (Orchid Primrose) is a striking perennial. Borne on stout stems above rosettes of spear-shaped, erect, light green leaves. Blooming in early to mid-summer, these rocket-shaped spikes are quite long-lasting and provide a spectacular effect when planted in groups. Grows up to 12-18 in. (30-45 cm). Native to moist mountain areas in China, this perennial thrives in damp, shady environments including bog gardens, near ponds, and streams. USDA Zones: 5-8.