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Primula vialii

Vial's primrose or orchid primrose

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Dense crimson flower spikes open from the base into vivid lilac flowers, like a purple form of red hot poker. This summer-flowering primula will add a splash of colour at the front of a shady border.

Although Primula vialii is short lived, mass plantings of the erect flower spikes create a spectacular effect and are especially well suited to formal gardens and parterres.

How to care for Primula vialii:

Plant out in a partially shaded and sheltered position, adding plenty of leaf mould and compost to the planting hole and backfill. Improve drainage in heavier soils by incorporating grit or sand, to avoid the plant sitting in waterlogged conditions, especially in winter.

Water well until established, and keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season, as this primula prefers damp, humus-rich conditions. Apply a mulch of leaf mould or compost in autumn to help retain moisture and protect the crown in winter.

Divide large clumps in late spring or early summer after the plant has flowered, preferably during a wet spell.
Flowering period:
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
Eventual height:
0.6m
Eventual spread:
0.3m
Position:

Light shade

Rate of growth:

Average

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil

Hardiness:

Fully hardy

  • InformationThis perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

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RH30000324
9cm pot
£10.99
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RH30004441
3 × 9cm pots
£25.99 £8.66 each
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