Primula incana, commonly known as Mealy Primrose, is a perennial herb native to alpine and subalpine zones, often found in moist meadows, along streams, and in open, rocky areas in the mountains of western North America. It typically grows up to 1 foot in height and features a basal rosette of silvery, mealy-textured leaves due to a covering of fine white hairs. From late spring to early summer, it produces clusters of pale yellow flowers with a darker yellow center, which are modest in size but can be quite showy due to their contrast against the foliage.

Mealy Primrose is valued for its early spring blooms and its ability to thrive in cool, moist conditions, making it a suitable choice for rock gardens, alpine collections, and as a ground cover in shaded areas. It requires consistent moisture but also well-drained soil to prevent root rot. While it prefers partial shade, it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. Mealy Primrose is not commonly affected by serious pests or diseases, but overwatering can lead to problems. It is not known for aggressive roots or invasiveness.CC BY-SA 4.0