Also known as primula, primrose is one of spring’s early bloomers across the Northern Hemisphere, making it a mainstay in New Jersey home gardens. This cool season annual typically blooms from March through May, and comes in a wide variety of colors including yellow, red, pink, purple and white. Primrose usually grows to be 4-6 inches in height.
Plant primrose in moderately moist soil for a bright spring showcase. Thanks to its vibrant colors, primrose makes the perfect pot flower for lining walkways and patios–but that’s not all it’s good for!
Did You Know?
Primrose has a prevalent place in folk medicine. In the Middle Ages, primrose was the main ingredient in magic potions and love potions. It has also been used to treat ailments ranging from insomnia and headache to gout, rheumatism and paralysis.
Other Fun Facts About Primrose
- During extremely mild winters, primrose has been known to bloom as early as January or February.
- The name primrose is derived from the Latin word, “primula,” which means “early” or “first,” and nods to the flower’s early blooming in spring.
- Primrose leaves are actually edible and can be included in salads.
- Primrose is a key source of food for rare species of butterflies.
- Dried primrose can be used to make tea.
- In the UK, April 19 is Primrose Day.
