Plant pre y spring primulas
In an array of colours and easy to grow, there’s a variety to suit every situation
The appearance of the pale lemon flowers of primroses in early spring is a heart-warming sight that raises the spirts and heralds the start of a new gardening year. The name comes from the Latin prima rosa, meaning first flower, referring to the fact that primroses can, during mild spells, bloom as early as January.
This native wildflower is a member of the primula family, one of the most diverse groups of plants with around 450 different species that grow in a range of habitats, mainly across the northern hemisphere. This means if you’re looking for a plant for a meadow or boggy area, sun or shade, or a border, container or rockery, there’s a primula to fit your requirements.
There’s even one, Primula obconica, which can be grown as a houseplant.
Most are hardy, easy to grow and range from tiny alpines to the tall stems of Primula florindae (Tibetan cowslip), which can reach over 1m (3¼ft); they also come in a fabulous array of colours. Generally primulas are seen as spring-flowering plants but there are some that bloom later in the year, and because these will grow in shade they’re useful for brightening up the planting underneath deciduous trees, which can lack interest during the summer months.
Many primulas also make surprisingly good cut flowers, lasting seven to 10 days in a vase. The ones with long stems are the best, but even primroses can be picked – just make sure you cut as
much of the stem as possible before popping them in a small vase.