Japanese Primrose

(Primula sieboldii)

Japanese Primrose (Primula sieboldii)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Primula sieboldii, commonly known as Japanese Primrose, is a deciduous perennial herb native to moist meadows, stream banks, and light deciduous forests of East Asia, particularly Japan, China, and Korea. It typically forms a low-growing clump up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall and wide, with a basal rosette of ovate leaves that are green above and often paler beneath. The leaves have a hairy petiole ranging from 3.5 to 12 centimeters in length. Japanese Primrose is celebrated for its delicate flowers that bloom in various shades including pink, purple, red, and white, appearing in the spring and sometimes continuing into early summer. The flowers are borne on slender stems above the foliage and are quite showy, making them a favorite for woodland gardens and shaded borders.

Japanese Primrose is valued for its charming flowers and ability to thrive in shady conditions, making it a popular choice for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and as a ground cover under taller plants. It prefers consistently moist, humus-rich soils and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun in cooler climates to part shade. While it requires regular watering, especially in drier conditions, it is relatively low maintenance once established. It is not commonly afflicted by diseases or pests, but slugs and snails can sometimes be problematic. Japanese Primrose does not have aggressive roots, making it a safe choice for planting near structures.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, Purple, Red, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Moist meadows, stream banks, and light deciduous forests in East Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Siebold’s Primrose, Cherry Blossom Primrose, Japanese Woodland Primrose, Snowflake, Geisha Girl, Madam Butterfly, Siebolds Primel, Primevère De Siebold, Praktviva, Ying Cao

Scientific Names: , Primula sieboldii, Primula patens, Primula cortusoides var. patens, Primula sieboldii f. spontanea, Primula sieboldii f. albiflora, Auganthus sieboldii, Primula cortusoides var. sieboldii, Primula gracilis, Primula patens subsp. manshurica

GBIF Accepted Name: Primula sieboldii É.Morren