Not all primroses are the same. There are numerous species – around 500 in total. As a hobby gardener, keeping track of everything is almost impossible. Therefore, the most important types of primroses are shown here with their characteristics.
What types of primroses are there?
The most important primrose species include the cup primrose (Primula obconica), cushion primrose (Primula vulgaris), cowslip (Primula veris), Japanese primrose (Primula japonica) and other species such as Clusius primrose, globe -Primrose, orchid primrose, carpet primrose and lilac primrose. They vary in flowering time, color and height.
The cup primrose – the poisonous roommate
The cup primrose is also known as Primula obconica and is often kept in pots in the home. It is considered highly toxic and should be kept out of the reach of children and pets. If it comes into contact with the skin, it can cause skin irritation in sensitive people.
Other of its features are:
- Flower color varies depending on variety
- Flowering period: July to winter
- Leaves are finely hairy
- Growth height 10 to 30 cm
- s alt sensitive
- Location: bright, but not sunny
- not hardy
The cushion primrose – widespread
Primula vulgaris is the most popular primrose among German gardeners. It prefers cool and partially shaded locations. Unfortunately, it is more prone to leaf spots. Recommended primrose varieties here are 'Herald of Spring' (red) and 'Snow White' (pure white).
The cowslip – protected wildflower
Primula veris grows up to 20 cm high and is protected. The flowering period extends between April and June. This wildflower usually grows in sunny locations and has golden yellow flowers. But the variety 'Sunset Shades' blooms yellow-dark red.
The Japanese tiered primrose – tier by tier
The fourth species that is commonly planted is Primula japonica. This species is characterized by its tiered growth, small flowers and flowering period between June and July. Interesting varieties are especially:
- ‘Atropurpurea’: dark red
- ‘Alba’: white with eye
- ‘Carminea’: carmine red
- ‘Miller’s Crimson’: red
Other important species
Other species that are also popular to plant are these:
| Name | Latin name | Growth height in cm | Flowering time | Flower color | Special feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clusius Primrose | Primula clusiana | 5 | April to June | white-purple | ovoid-elongated leaves |
| The Ball Primrose | Primula denticulata | 30 | March to April | white-purple | spherically arranged flowers |
| Orchid Primrose | Primula valii | 30 | June to July | lilac to red | cup-shaped flowers |
| Carpet Primrose | Primula juliae | 15 | February to April | violet | ground-covering growth |
| Lilac Primrose | Primula malacoides | 40 | December to March | pink to lilac | annual |
Tips & Tricks
If you want to plant different types of primroses, it is best to plant several of the same color in groups.
