Primula japonica ‘Apple Blossom’ (Japanese Primrose)

Pleasing to the eye, Primula japonica ‘Apple Blossom’ (Japanese Primrose) is a deciduous perennial with attractive whorls of up to 10 shell pink flowers adorned with a red eye. They are spaced at intervals along upright, slender stems and rise above basal rosettes of lettuce-like, pale green crinkly leaves. Native to Japan, this perennial thrives in damp, shady environments where it brings its charming blossoms in late spring to early summer. Plant in groups or drifts with hostas, ferns and iris in damp open woodlands, next to streams and ponds.

• Easily grows up to 18-20 in. tall (45-60 cm) and 12-18 in. wide (30-45 cm). This plant quickly establishes to a good size by self-sowing and looks particularly beautiful when grown in mass. While winter-deciduous, it will return with vigor year after year.
• A part shade lover, it is best grown in humus–rich, consistently moist, neutral to acid soils. This plant may be grown in full sun in cool summer areas, provided the soil remains moist. Mulch this plant to help maintain the soil moisture and keep the roots cool. Wet soil tolerated.
• This plant is very versatile and can be used in partially shaded beds and borders, in cottage gardens, bog gardens, or along streams, ponds.
• Cut back after flowering.
• Attracts butterflies, deer resistant. Watch out for pests such as aphids, vine weevil, slugs and glasshouse red spider mite.
• Propagate by seed. Sow on the surface of the compost as soon as ripe in late winter or early spring. Can be propagated by division between autumn and early spring. Take root cuttings when dormant in winter.