Looks good with...
Cornus sanguinea ‘Midwinter Fire’
For an eye-catching fiery late-winter display underplant this colourful dogwood with cowslips or Primula vulgaris.
The flame-coloured stems are at their best when grown in full sun. H: 61∕2ft (2m).
Hellebores
Plant primroses at the feet of colourful
Helleborus x hybridus varieties for a jewellery box of sparkling shades. The deep ruby of ‘Harvington Red’ (above) offers plenty of possibilities for dramatic contrast. H: 1ft (30cm).
Polypodium vulgare
At home in sun or dappled shade and moist but well-drained soil, ferns make excellent companions for primroses. Native evergreen adder’s fern is very versatile and unfussy, but it does appreciate a sheltered spot. H: 1ft (30cm).
Tulipa clusiana
Grow this early flowering species tulip in a sunny spot with primroses in a shaded area close by to enjoy them in flower at the same time. Blooms of the former are white or cream inside, their dark pink outsides edged with white. H: 1ft (30cm)
Anemone blanda AGM
With their daisy blooms in a bright purple-blue, these spring-flowering anemones look lovely alongside the pale lemon or pink of Primula vulgaris.
White or pink A. blanda options will also partner well. H: 4in (10cm).