Primula sieboldii
Family: Primulaceae
What it is like
Primula sieboldii is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in leaf from March to August, in flower in May, and the seeds ripen in June. 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). It prefers moist or wet soil.
Height (m): 0.2
Where it is found
Wet grassy places, especially by rivers, in lowland all over Japan. Wet areas in forests in northern China.
E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea, Siberia.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Young plant - cooked.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Easily grown in a moist but well-drained fertile leafy soil in cool sun or partial shade. Grows well in heavy clay soils. There are many named forms selected for their ornamental value.
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 Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Bog Garden;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 4-8
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade
Moisture: Moist, wet