Georgia Gardener Newsletter Cool Plant

Georgia Gardener Newsletter Cool Plant: March 14, 2013

Primrose

Primula spp.

Species Native Range: Hybrid of garden origin

USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-8

Mature Size: 6-8 inches tall & 12 inches wide

Exposure: Partial to medium shade

Soil: rich, moist but well-drained

Drought Tolerance: Poor

Ease of Culture: Easy as a short-lived perennial

Primroses are some of the most attractive early-spring flowering plants. Blooms come in a wide variety of bright colors from red to yellow, blue and violet. Many have two-toned flowers with brightly colored centers. Although these plants are technically perennials, they do not tolerate hot summers and dry weather and tend to be short-lived. As a result, they are best grown as cool season annuals in Georgia. However, I can boast that I was able to keep several primroses alive outdoors for several years by growing them in containers and relocating them to cooler locations during the summer. They can also be kept as houseplants through the summer and placed outdoors again in the fall.

Primroses are best grown in partial to medium shade in soil that is high in organic matter, moist but well-drained. A good layer of mulch around the plants will help retain moisture and keep them cool as hot weather approaches. They also grow very well mixed in containers.

Plant Primroses with other early-blooming or shade-tolerant plants such as Daffodils, Hellebores and Autumn Fern. Primroses are loved by rabbits who will eat the leaves and flowers. You may need to protect them with netting if rabbits are a problem in your garden.

Sources:

Primroses are commonly available from nurseries at this time of year. Most are purchased in 4-6 inch pots. Look for them in the Annuals section of your favorite nursery.