Primula (Primrose)
Primrose, Polyanthus primula, Double Primula, Border Auricula, Garden Auricula, Alpine Auricula, Candelabra Primula, Bog Garden Primula, Belled Primula
Lifting our spirits with their bright colors in the first months of the year, Primulas, also known as Primroses, belong to a huge genus of more than 430 species. Hardy, these cheerful perennials provide a wide range of sizes, and shapes and come in almost every color imaginable. They range from tiny rock garden plants to statuesque candelabras.
- Happy in a wide range of conditions, they are relatively easy to grow and are not fussy, as long as they are given some shade and average well-drained soils.
- Depending on the varieties, Primulas bloom from early spring to late summer. Growing different primrose varieties would greatly extend their floral display in your yard – up to 6 months of brilliant colors!
- Adaptable and versatile, there are Primulas for every type of garden, including urban gardens, cottage gardens, rock gardens, woodland gardens, and bog gardens. They also can be grown in containers.
Guide Information
| Hardiness |
3 - 8 |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Perennials |
| Genus | Primula |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest |
Spring (Early, Mid, Late) Summer (Early, Mid, Late) |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Characteristics | Showy |
| Tolerance | Deer, Rabbit |
Main Types of Primulas for Your Garden
Primrose Growing Tips
Here are some tips for growing primula:
- Light: Primula prefers partial shade to full shade, especially during the hottest part of the day.
- Soil: Primula prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They do best in soil that is moist but not waterlogged.
- Watering: Water primula regularly, especially during dry periods. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilizer: Primula does not typically require fertilizer, but if you want to give it a boost, you can use a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year.
- Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around primula plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Propagation: Primula can be propagated by division, seed, or cuttings. Division is the easiest and most reliable method.
- Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to encourage primula to produce more blooms.
- Winter protection: Primula can be susceptible to frost damage, so protect them during the winter by covering them with a layer of mulch or leaves.
By following these tips, you can successfully grow primula in your garden and enjoy their beautiful blooms for years to come.
Garden Examples
By Martin Christopher Parker / Shutterstock
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.
Guide Information
| Hardiness |
3 - 8 |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Perennials |
| Genus | Primula |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest |
Spring (Early, Mid, Late) Summer (Early, Mid, Late) |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Characteristics | Showy |
| Tolerance | Deer, Rabbit |
