Primula marginata (Silver-Edged Primrose)

Very hardy and floriferous, award-winning 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, 1.2 in. across (3 cm), adorned with a white heart, are produced on short stems above the foliage. 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.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural society.
• Grows in clumps, up to 6 in. tall (15 cm) and 12 in. wide (30 cm).
• A full sun to part shade lover, it is best grown in humus-rich, slightly alkaline, well-drained soils.
• Best grown in an alpine house, rock gardens.
• Propagate by seed, root basal cuttings or take root cuttings when dormant
• Deer and rabbit resistant. Watch out for pests such as aphids, vine weevil, slugs and glasshouse red spider mite. May be affected by primula leaf spot.
• Native to Europe (Alps).