Primula veris
cowslip
From mid to late spring, scented, deep yellow flowers emerge from rosettes of mid-green leaves and hang in delicate clusters on erect stems. With the reduction of old pastureland colonies of this lovely once-common native wildflower are decreasing. Cowslips are perfect for a wildflower garden on moist soil, so why not help to reverse this trend?
How to care for Primula veris:
Plant in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in partial shade. Position so that the crown sits just below soil level and space plants 15-30cm (6-12in) apart. Water well after planting and ensure soil remains consistently damp, especially in dry periods.
Mulch annually with well-rotted compost or leaf mould to retain moisture and improve soil structure. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage prolonged blooming, but allow some to set seed for naturalising. In colder regions, protect young plants from harsh frosts with a light mulch of straw or leaf litter.
Divide congested clumps every few years in early autumn or after flowering to growing in full sun.
Mulch annually with well-rotted compost or leaf mould to retain moisture and improve soil structure. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage prolonged blooming, but allow some to set seed for naturalising. In colder regions, protect young plants from harsh frosts with a light mulch of straw or leaf litter.
Divide congested clumps every few years in early autumn or after flowering to growing in full sun.
Sowing instructions:
Sow on the surface of good seed compost and gently firm them in before watering. Place in a cold frame and transplant individually into small pots when large enough to handle. Keep moist but not wet and grow on in a cool environment before hardening off and planting out in the garden. Most seeds should germinate within 6 weeks, but as they need cold and wet conditions prior to germination, some may lie dormant for up to 2 years before they start to sprout. Therefore, once the first seedlings have been thinned out and grown on, tuck the seed tray in a shady corner and see what happens.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.25m
Eventual spread:
0.25m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
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This perennial is semi-evergreen so it can lose some of its leaves in winter. In colder regions or more exposed gardens, it may lose them all, but then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
