Primula reticulata
Family: Primulaceae
What it is like
Primula reticulata is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.4
Where it is found
Shrubberies and open slopes, 3300 - 4800 metres. Thickets on mountain slopes around 3000 metres.
E. Asia - Himalayas from C. Nepal to S.E. Tibet.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 1
The herb is used externally as an anodyne.
Anodyne: Relieves pain, it is milder than an analgesic.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Prefers a deep moist humus-rich soil, succeeding in full sun if the soil is reliably moist throughout the growing season, otherwise it requires some shade. Grows well in heavy clay soils. Succeeds along the sides of streams and in woodland gardens. Plants self-sow when in suitable conditions.
Propagating it: Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame. Sow stored seed in early spring in a cold frame. Germination is inhibited by temperatures above 20°c. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Division in autumn. This is best done every other year.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 5-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist
Things to keep in mind
There is one report that the leaves are toxic to cattle.