Alphabetical Plant Listing

Primula pulverulenta (Candelabra Primrose)

Candelabra Primrose, Candelabra Primula, Farinose Candelabra Primula, Mealy Primrose, Powdered Primrose, Powdery Primrose


Usually flowering before all other Primula Candelabras, award-winning Primula pulverulenta, commonly known as Candelabra Primrose, is a lovely species native to Sichuan, China. Long-lived, this hardy, semi-evergreen perennial thrives in damp, shady environments where it brings in late spring or early summer, tiered whorls of deep crimson-red, bell-shaped flowers (6 to 8 per stem) spaced at intervals on leafless stems that rise atop basal rosettes of tooth-edged, medium green leaves. The botanical name epithete 'pulverulenta', meaning 'dusty', refers to the mealy silvery-white layer (farina) covering the stems and flower buds of the plant and enhancing its appearance. This Primula is one of the easiest of the tall Primulas to grow. Primroses are brilliant vehicles for adding color to the shade garden.

  • Easily grows up to 3 ft. tall (90 cm) and 2 ft. across (60 cm).
  • Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society for its outstanding qualities
  • A part shade lover, it is best grown in rich, consistently moist soils. Full shade may be tolerated. This plant may be grown in full sun in cool summer areas, provided the soil remains moist. Doesn't tolerate summer heat or humidity. 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, borders, rock gardens, woodlands, under trees, in containers or along streams, ponds or bog gardens.
  • Attracts butterflies, but is ignored by deer and rabbit.

 

Primula (Primrose): How to Grow and Care with Success

Want to learn how to grow and care for Primrose flowers like a pro? Follow these simple steps and enjoy the beauty of these striking plantsRead More

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Requirements

Hardiness 4 – 8
Heat Zones 1 – 8
Climate Zones 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 17
Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Primula - Primrose
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Late)
Summer (Early)
Height 2' – 3' (60cm – 90cm)
Spread 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm)
Spacing 24" – 30" (60cm – 75cm)
Water Needs High
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Loam
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moisture Retentive, Poorly Drained
Characteristics Plant of Merit, Showy
Tolerance Clay Soil, Deer, Rabbit, Wet Soil
Attracts Butterflies
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Bog Gardens, Patio and Containers, Ponds and Streams
Garden Styles Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage

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By Peter Turner Photography / 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.


Requirements

Hardiness 4 – 8
Heat Zones 1 – 8
Climate Zones 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 17
Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Primula - Primrose
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Late)
Summer (Early)
Height 2' – 3' (60cm – 90cm)
Spread 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm)
Spacing 24" – 30" (60cm – 75cm)
Water Needs High
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Loam
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moisture Retentive, Poorly Drained
Characteristics Plant of Merit, Showy
Tolerance Clay Soil, Deer, Rabbit, Wet Soil
Attracts Butterflies
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Bog Gardens, Patio and Containers, Ponds and Streams
Garden Styles Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage

Great Plant Combination Ideas with Primula - Primrose

Guides with Primula - Primrose

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