Primula vulgaris subsp. vulgaris (Pr/Prim)
common primrose
A rosette-forming perennial to 20cm tall, with obovate light green leaves and clusters of fragrant, long-stalked pale yellow flowers 2.5-4cm in width produced in early spring
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Yellow | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Yellow | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Primulaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Primula are herbaceous or semi-evergreen perennials, forming a basal rosette of simple leaves, with salver-shaped or bell-shaped flowers which may be solitary or carried in an umbel or in whorls on an erect stem
- Name status
Correct
- Horticultural Group
- Primrose group primulas are mainly grown as herbaceous perennials, and produce clusters of flowers on individual stems from the basal rosettes, although a few may also have umbel-like flowers. They are either spring-flowering, if grown without protection, or winter- to spring-flowering, if grown as biennial container plants in greenhouses or indoors.
- Plant range
- Europe, N Africa, SW Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in partial shade or full sun but only if moist at all times. Good in open woodland or banks. See primula cultivation for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed or division in autumn and early spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Patio and container plants
- Rock garden
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Wildflower meadow
- Banks and slopes
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to aphids, glasshouse red spider mite, leafhoppers, vine weevil and slugs
Diseases
May be subject to primula brown core and grey moulds
Get involved
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