Primroses and polyanthus

Clusters of large, rounded flowers in a range of jewel-like colours, sometimes with contrasting centres and petal edges, nestle above mounds of soft leaves. A few have double flowers.

They will grow in most soils, provided they are not too wet or dry, in sun or light shade. In containers, use multi-purpose peat-free compost with added grit or perlite.

They do not do well on very limey (alkaline) soil or on soil that is prone to drying out. You can improve the soil with organic matter. They will not flower in deep shade.

Although some plants are capable of surviving after their first year, flowers in subsequent years are likely to be smaller and fewer in number, so plants are best replaced each year. The fairy primrose, Primula malacoides, has sprays of fragrant flowers on long stems and is often sold as a houseplant. Again, discard after flowering.