This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: partial shade
• Soil: moist, humus-rich, neutral to acid soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: May to June
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Forming in tiers on the upright, white-dusted stems in late spring and early summer, the flowers of this moisture-loving perennial are normally a deep reddish purple, with a dark-red or purple eye. A generous drift of this striking candelabra primula looks great in the dappled shade of a woodland garden, and given the right conditions they are easy to grow.
  
  
• Garden care: Divide large clumps after the plant has flowered, preferably during a wet spell.