Primula vulgaris
Primula vulgaris
Common primrose
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Taxonomy
Family Primulaceae · Genus Primula
Description
Primula vulgaris, the common primrose, is a charming, cool-loving perennial with cheerful spring flowers over neat leaf rosettes. It thrives in partial shade with moist, humus-rich soil and brings early color to borders, woodland edges, and containers.
Common Names
Common primroseEnglish primroseWild primroseEuropean primrose
Context
nativeRegion
Western and southern Europe (notably the British Isles), with occurrences in North Africa and western Asia; widely naturalized.
usdaZones
3-8
companionPlants
Helleborus (hellebores), Galanthus (snowdrops), Pulmonaria, Brunnera, Hosta, Ferns
culturalUses
Classic cottage-garden and woodland-edge plant; early nectar source for pollinators; flowers sometimes used decoratively in salads and traditional beverages; emblematic of spring in European folklore.
Care
Care Requirements
LightPartial shade to dappled light; morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal, especially in warmer climates.
WateringKeep evenly moist—never bone-dry or waterlogged. Water when the top 0.5 in (1 cm) begins to dry.
SoilHumus-rich, well-drained loam; slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0). Add leaf mold or compost for best results.
FertilizerIn spring, apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer or feed monthly at half-strength during active growth.
HumidityPrefers moderate humidity; avoid hot, dry air. Mulch to keep roots cool and moisture even.
TemperatureBest at 45–65°F (7–18°C). Hardy in dormancy to USDA Zones 3–8; protect from prolonged heat above ~75°F (24°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitLow, clumping, rosette-forming herbaceous perennial.
Mature Size4–8 in tall x 6–12 in wide (10–20 cm x 15–30 cm).
Growth RateModerate.
BloomingLate winter to spring; species typically pale yellow blooms, may lightly rebloom in cool autumn.
DormancySemi-evergreen; may go summer-dormant in heat and die back in very cold winters, resprouting in spring.
Propagation
MethodsDivision, Seed, Offsets
DifficultyEasy
Best SeasonDivide after flowering in spring or in early autumn; sow seed late summer to late winter under cool conditions.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningDeadhead spent blooms to extend flowering; remove tatty or winter-burned leaves to keep rosettes tidy.
RepottingFor containers, repot after flowering with fresh, rich mix. In beds, divide congested clumps every 2–3 years.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for vine weevil (root damage), aphids, slugs/snails, and spider mites. Avoid crown rot, botrytis, and powdery mildew by ensuring drainage, spacing, and good airflow.
ToxicityGenerally low toxicity. Sap may irritate sensitive skin; ingestion can cause mild GI upset in pets/humans.
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