Cowslip Primrose

(Primula veris)

Cowslip Primrose (Primula veris)

Ana C

CC BY-SA 4.0

Image By: Ana C

Recorded By:

Estimated Native Range

Summary

Primula veris, commonly known as Cowslip Primrose, is a perennial herb that is typically evergreen but can be semi-deciduous in colder climates. It is native to a variety of habitats including open grasslands, deciduous forests, and scrublands across Europe and extending into Siberia. This species thrives in meadows and at the edges of forest clearings where it can receive dappled sunlight. Cowslip Primrose reaches a modest height and width of approximately 25 cm (10 in), forming a low-growing rosette of oblong leaves that are 5–15 cm long and 2–6 cm broad. The plant is well-known for its deep yellow flowers that bloom profusely in the spring, creating clusters of 10–30 bell-shaped blooms on each upright stem. Each flower measures 9–15 mm across and is highly attractive to pollinators.

Cowslip Primrose is valued for its early spring flowers, which add a splash of color to gardens when few other plants are in bloom. It is often used in woodland gardens, rock gardens, and as an underplanting for deciduous trees. This plant is relatively low-maintenance, requiring only part shade and medium amounts of water, with a preference for well-drained soils. While it is not particularly prone to diseases, slugs and snails can sometimes be a problem. It is important to note that while red- and orange-flowered variants can occur, these are often the result of cross-pollination with colored primula hybrids and may not breed true.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

Plant Type: Herb
Height: 0.5-0.8 feet
Width: 0.3-0.5 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Flower Color: Yellow
Flowering Season: Spring
Leaf Retention: Semi-Deciduous

Growth Requirements

Sun: Part Shade
Water: Medium
Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, 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, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to open grasslands, deciduous forests, and scrublands across Europe and Siberia

Other Names

Common Names: Cowslip, Briallen Fair, Common Cowslip, Hulkravet Kodriver, Echte Schlüsselblume, Frühlingsschlüsselblume, Wiesen-Schlüsselblume, Primevère Officinale, Bainne Bó Bleachtáin, Marianøkleblom

Scientific Names: , Primula veris, Primula officinalis var. canescens, Primula canescens, Primula montana, Primula discolor, Pinguicula suaveolens, Primula cordifolia, Primula lasiopetala, Primula praticola

GBIF Accepted Name: Primula veris L.