Primula elatior – Oxslip

A common perennial, now well-used to Irish wildflower gardens, but originally hailing from boggy pastures used by cattle- hence the common name. Basal rosettes of oval crinkly leaves, with upright stems bearing small clusters of pale yellow flowers of about an inch in size, with darker yellow hearts. They smell of primrose and come out as early as April through to May. A favourite to gardeners in the know, happy in average to heavy soils and a partial shade exposure. Great in containers and window boxes. It is a good neighbour to spring-flowering bulbs, as well as other rock garden plants. Easily divided in early Autumn.

Site: Sheltered
Soil: Any moist but well-drained
Position: Full sun to part shade
Season of Interest: Perennial, primrose-like scented flowers Apr-May
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: 1.5ft (0.5m) Spread: 1.5ft (0.5m)