Primrose - description with photo of the plant; medicinal properties of the flower and its oil; benefit and harm; used for treatment and cooking. Houseplant flower primrose
There are many different names for garden perennial primrose: lambs, Easter flowers, talismans of happiness, and keys. This plant has gained extreme love from flower growers for species diversity, original colors, ease of reproduction and ease of care. In addition, new hybrids of perennial primrose flowers appear year after year, which means that interest in these primroses will never dry up.
What perennial primroses look like
Primrose, or primrose, is a flower from the Primrose family. This is the most beautiful perennial, usually blooming in early spring. More than 500 species of primroses are known in nature, common in Europe, America, and Asia. They are found mainly in mountainous areas, forests, and also on plains on moist, humus-rich soil. Some species - Berengia primrose, Daryal primrose, Julia, bud-leaved - are listed in the Red Book of the Russian Federation.
On this page you will find photos and descriptions of the most popular primroses. popular types and varieties.
Primroses attract gardeners with early, abundant and long-lasting flowering, a variety of colors and shapes, and a pleasant aroma. If you have in the collection different types primroses, you can admire their bright blooms with early spring until mid-summer. Some species may bloom again in the fall. The advantages of primroses are also winter hardiness, comparative simplicity of culture, rapid reproduction (from seeds and vegetatively), and decorative foliage until late autumn.
Spring primroses bloom almost immediately after the snow melts and bloom until the end of May, combining well with many bulbous plants and filling the gaps between them.
As you can see in the photo, perennial primroses can be used in any flower beds landscape style, ridges, curbs, on alpine slides:
Group plantings form a bright, very picturesque carpet. Long-stemmed species are suitable for first spring bouquets. Plants are suitable for decorating containers and vases. If you plant primroses in pots in the fall, they will bloom in March.
Primrose is a low-growing rhizomatous plant 10-30 cm high. Wrinkled leaves are collected in a basal rosette. Flowers are solitary or in inflorescences - umbellate, spherical, capitate.
Look at the photo what primroses look like - the colors of the flowers can be very diverse, except for sky blue:
Many types of primroses have a strong, pleasant aroma. Flowering duration is up to a month.
How to grow perennial primrose: planting and care (with photo)
The most important condition successful cultivation garden perennial primrose is right choice landing places. They need to be planted in semi-shaded or slightly shaded corners of the garden, but well ventilated. You can place them under singles, as well as under decorative trees and shrubs with late-blooming foliage.
In open, sunny places, primroses bloom as usual in early spring, but with the onset of summer, their leaves wither and dry out; By autumn, the plants are so weakened that the next year they die or do not bloom.
To plant and care for primroses, the soil must be prepared moist, loose, and fertile. It is recommended to add rotted manure or compost (2 buckets per 1 m2), complete mineral fertilizer (150-200 g) and dig to a depth of 30 cm. Add 1 bucket to the loams river sand per 1 m2. Primulas are placed at a distance of 20-30 cm from each other, and large species - at a distance of 40 cm.
How to care for primroses to ensure good flowering? Plants are watered depending on the weather so that the soil is constantly moderately moist. After watering, the soil is loosened and covered with a 2-3 cm layer of mulch. Plants respond well to the application of bird droppings infusion (1:20). IN favorable conditions primroses rarely get sick and are almost not affected.
Primroses are propagated by dividing overgrown plants and by seeds. It is better to plant cuttings in early autumn so that they have time to take root before the onset of cold weather. Three to four year old specimens are divided. An overgrown bush produces 4-6 divisions, which should have good roots and several leaves. In hot weather, planted plants are watered daily for a week.
How to grow primrose from seeds? At seed propagation wild primroses retain their characteristics. Garden hybrid plants propagated vegetatively, since when sowing seeds, the properties of the variety are not inherited. The offspring can be very diverse, sometimes very beautiful.
Seeds are sown in late autumn to a depth of 0.5 cm in boxes or directly into the ground. Seeds can also be planted in open ground in the spring. Seedlings at the stage of 2-3 true leaves first dive at a distance of 10-15 cm from each other at shady place. Seedlings are very demanding of moisture and need regular watering. Grown plants are planted in a permanent place. They bloom in 2 years.
Here you can see photos of planting and caring for primroses grown from cuttings and seeds:
Types and varieties of primroses: photos and descriptions
Mostly hybrid primroses are cultivated in gardens, as well as some wild ones. The most common are the following.
Primula vulgaris, or stemless , found naturally in Crimea and the Caucasus. The flowers are up to 3 cm in diameter, on a very short stem, light yellow with a purple center. The leaves are quite large, light green. Flowering is abundant from the end of April throughout the month.
As a result of hybridization, many varieties of primroses with lilac and dark blue flowers were obtained.
Spring primrose, or rams. The flowers are up to 2 cm in diameter, bright yellow with an orange spot in the center, collected in an umbrella-shaped inflorescence on a stem up to 20 cm high. It blooms for more than a month, from the end of April. Mostly hybrid forms with large and double flowers of a wide variety of colors are grown.
Primula aurica, or auricula , is one of the most beautiful views. Widely cultivated in European countries since the 16th century. In nature, it lives in alpine meadows in the mountains of Central and Southern Europe.
As you can see in the photo, the flowers of this garden perennial primrose are yellow, collected in an umbrella at the top of a strong arrow 20-25 cm high:
The leaves are dense, smooth, rounded, forming a beautiful rosette.
Varieties and natural hybrids are cultivated that have flowers up to 3-4 cm in diameter, mostly two-colored various combinations coloring. The flowers are collected in an umbrella-shaped inflorescence on an arrow up to 20 cm high. It blooms in May-June for 20-25 days. The best location is partial shade; in the sun, flowering time is reduced. Auricula are planted in the foreground in rockeries, along paths.
A natural hybrid of the auricula is primrose pubescent . The fragrant flowers are 1.5-4 cm in diameter and come in a variety of colors (from pure white to purple and brown).
Pay attention to the photo of this type of primrose - there are varieties both plain and with a white, cream or yellow eye:
The flowers are collected in corymbs on stems 10-20 cm high. The evergreen leaves are very expressive with a light powdery coating, sometimes forming a light stripe along the edges.
Primrose fine-toothed comes from the alpine meadows of the Himalayas. Numerous small flowers up to 1 cm in diameter are collected in a spherical inflorescence with a diameter of 6-7 cm. A strong peduncle 20-25 cm high after flowering stretches to 50-60 cm. A well-developed plant forms up to 5 peduncles. The color of the flowers is usually lilac, less often white, pink, reddish-purple or dark purple. It blooms from the end of April for 25-30 days. As they fade, leaves grow, reaching 20 cm. They are strongly wrinkled, finely toothed, and covered with a thick yellowish coating on the underside, which enhances decorative effect. In summer, the small-toothed primrose bush resembles an exotic one.
Primrose high originally from Transcarpathia, the southern and middle part Western Europe. Flowers up to 2 cm in diameter, light yellow, with a darker spot in the center, are collected in an umbellate inflorescence on an arrow 20-30 cm high.
The photo of this variety of primrose shows that the leaves of the plant are oblong-oval, wavy, toothed, and hairy below:
It blooms from late April - early May for 30-35 days. There are numerous hybrids with a variety of flower colors.
Primrose cartose found in Western and Eastern Siberia. Flowers are up to 2.5 cm in diameter, pink, light purple, collected in 8-12 pieces in an umbrella-shaped inflorescence on a stem up to 30 cm high. The leaves are ovate, serrated, slightly hairy, on long petioles, collected in a small rosette. Blooms in May, again in August-September.
Primrose Julia. Homeland - Caucasus. One of the most beautiful miniature species, only 10 cm high. In April, the plant is covered with a mass of pink-violet flowers up to 3 cm in diameter. Flowering continues until mid-May. The leaves are shiny, bright green. It grows quickly, numerous creeping shoots soon form continuous turf carpets. This is one of the few species that grows well on open places, if the soil is loamy and moist enough.
The golden key to the kingdom of greenery. Received this description primrose from our ancestors. The Slavs noticed that the plant was one of the first to emerge from under the snow. Shows the way to the rest and spring, people said.
It was compared to gold due to the yellow color of the buds. They are collected in inflorescences-umbrellas, reminiscent of bundles of prickly flowers. We will also select those that are needed for successful growing primrose.
Features of primrose
Primrose flower classified as a member of the Primrose family. This is reflected in the name of the plant. The Latin word primus translates as “first.” Hence the familiar concept of prima.
The “first violin” among the forest appears even before the snow melts. First, the leaves emerge. They are whole, wrinkled, covered with fluff. These greens are called lambsworts because of their resemblance to the backs of young lambs.
Primrose leaves extend from the root, collected in a rosette. There are stems, but they are bare. Buds bloom at the ends of the shoots. They are not always collected in inflorescences. There are varieties with single buds. Their shape is regular, the petals are fused at the base along the edges and are divided into 5 members.
House primrose, like wild species, is low. Plants of the genus are herbs. They are compact, most do not reach 30 centimeters. , at the same time, they are very bright, covering the greenery with a voluminous “cap”.
Add to this the brightness of the buds and we get a formula for success among gardeners. Suitable for them primrose perennial. Although, the genus also contains annuals, as well as herbs with a two-year development cycle.
Primrose indoor, or garden, can become not only a decoration of space, but a home healer. In Germany, for example, the buds of the plant are added to teas. It strengthens nervous system, calms.
Primrose oil, obtained from rhizomes and leaves, is one of the means of combating tuberculosis. Primrose capsules and in the form of an ointment is prescribed for eczema.
The grass has nutritional value. Young leaves are added to salads. In the Caucasus, greens are also used for soups, for example, cabbage soup. A spice is made from the roots. Recipes have been known since Ancient Greece. It was there that primrose began to be bred as a house plant.
The Greeks attributed the primrose magical properties, included in love drinks. The Celts, the ancestors of the Germans, also associated grass with the sensual side of life. The girl who finds the first primrose shoot in the spring will get married within a year. This belief exists in Germany to this day.
Primrose can provide a sweet life not only in terms of feelings. The buds secrete nectar. It makes excellent honey. True, it is difficult to obtain. It has pancake-shaped and narrow “legs”.
The syrup is collected in them. Bees don't always manage to get to it. The situation would change if artificially cultivated species were planted in nature. Among them there are samples with rather open buds.
Types of primrose
Chinese opens wide primrose. Photo the plants display buds with yellow cores and orange edges. The petals are wavy.
The lobed shape of the leaves is also noteworthy. They are large, about 4 centimeters in diameter. The edges of the foliage are serrated. Chinese view is a biennial, so it is more often found in gardens than in apartments.
There is another Chinese one primrose, at home which rarely has a place. The reason is no longer a short existence. The plant is perennial. The reverse-conical appearance has a pubescence on the leaves. The hairs secrete approx.
This volatile substance may cause allergies. This is what scares off flower growers. Otherwise, the Reverse Conical Primrose is good. The bush is compact in width, but tall - about 50 centimeters. The mass of buds is collected in umbrella inflorescences.
The color can be white, purple, pink, red. Possible cultivation primrose from seeds. Recently, several varieties have been developed with a reduced content of primine and without it at all. So, you can stop being afraid of the Reverse Conical species and start growing it in pots.
Some of the Krupnochashechnaya varieties are also used in indoor floriculture. primrose. Reviews they focus on the pleasant aroma of the buds and long flowering.
It lasts all winter and spring. Wild representatives of the species are found in the Caucasus and southern Siberia. I use the grass with bright yellow buds not only as decoration, but also as an expectorant.
Medicinal perennials include evening primrose. It has been bred in Europe since the 18th century. Before this, the plant was known only in its homeland - in North America. Evening grass was nicknamed because of its characteristics. The buds bloom at dusk.
After flowering, the plant produces fruits in the form of boxes. They contain hidden seeds from which they obtain primrose oil Reviews scientists about it are as follows: the ester contains gamma-linolenic acid. It slows down the aging process, prevents heart disease, cancer, arthritis and asthma.
Evening primrose, reviews of which “explode” the Internet, become for many flower growers both a decoration for their homes and a means of earning money. In warm regions, the plant, or rather its seeds, is grown for sale. The same cannot be said about the Stemless Species.
It is considered purely decorative. The perennial consists of several rosettes of foliage. A peduncle with one bud rises from the center of each. Its petals can be blue, white, yellow. The grass is low-growing, dense, compact, and resembles a violet in its configuration.
Primrose care at home
Being a primrose primrose, care behind which it is discussed, does not like heat. The plant needs spring coolness. Therefore, potted specimens are placed between window frames, taken out onto verandas, placed in unheated rooms.
This is especially important during the flowering period. At temperatures above 16 degrees, its duration is reduced and fewer buds are formed.
Primrose, buy which was decided will require frequent ventilation and plenty of light. Direct rays are not recommended. The light should be diffused.
Watering should be grassroots, that is, not touching the leaves. Moisture is directed directly to the roots, after the top layer of the substrate in which it grows has dried. primrose.
Landing carried out in medium nutrient soil. The mixture consists of humus, turf, sand and compost. You can add a little peat.
Feeding in time will not hurt. A solution of bird droppings works best. The soil is fertilized a second time at the end of summer. This time we need not organic matter, but ammonium nitrate. One gram is diluted per liter of water.
Primrose price
Planting, care for - that's the second thing. First, you need to buy seeds, sprouts, or a bush in a pot. All options are available. Samples in flowerpots with soil substrate cost from 150 rubles.
For plants with buds they ask from 200-from. Some varieties will cost 350-500 rubles. A premium is given for decorativeness, rarity of the species and the absence of primin in the roots, stems, and buds.
The price range for primrose seeds is wide. There are packages for 15 rubles, and there are also for 90. It all depends on the volume of the packs, the manufacturer, the trade markup and, again, the type of grass. By the way, Catherine the Great herself loved her.
The Empress collected not only flowers, but also Saxon porcelain with primroses painted on it. They even allocated a separate room in the palace for dishes. The sets have been preserved, but cannot be purchased. Porcelain was transferred to the management of museums.
Our grandmothers, growing garden strawberries, or strawberries, as we used to call them, did not particularly worry about mulching. But today this agricultural technique has become fundamental in achieving High Quality berries and reducing crop losses. Some might say it's a hassle. But practice shows that labor costs in this case pay off handsomely. In this article, we invite you to get acquainted with the nine best materials for mulching garden strawberries.
Succulents are very diverse. Despite the fact that “little ones” have always been considered more fashionable, the range of succulents with which you can decorate modern interior, it’s worth taking a closer look. After all, colors, sizes, patterns, degree of prickliness, impact on the interior are just a few of the parameters by which you can choose them. In this article we will tell you about the five most fashionable succulents that amazingly transform modern interiors.
The Egyptians used mint as early as 1.5 thousand years BC. It has a strong aroma due to great content various essential oils with high volatility. Today, mint is used in medicine, perfumery, cosmetology, winemaking, cooking, ornamental gardening, and the confectionery industry. In this article we will look at the most interesting varieties of mint, and also talk about the features of growing this plant in open ground.
People began growing crocuses 500 years before our era. Although the presence of these flowers in the garden is fleeting, we always look forward to the return of the harbingers of spring to next year. Crocuses are one of the earliest primroses, whose flowering begins as soon as the snow melts. However, flowering times may vary depending on the species and varieties. This article is dedicated to the earliest varieties of crocuses, which bloom in late March and early April.
Cabbage soup made from early young cabbage in beef broth is hearty, aromatic and easy to prepare. In this recipe you will learn how to cook delicious beef broth and cook light cabbage soup with this broth. Early cabbage It cooks quickly, so it is placed in the pan at the same time as other vegetables, unlike autumn cabbage, which takes a little longer to cook. Ready cabbage soup can be stored in the refrigerator for several days. Real cabbage soup turns out tastier than freshly prepared cabbage soup.
Blueberries are a rare and promising berry crop in gardens. Blueberries are a source of biologically active substances and vitamins and have antiscorbutic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and tonic properties. The berries contain vitamins C, E, A, flavonoids, anthocyanins, trace elements - zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, as well as plant hormones - phytoestrogens. Blueberries taste like a mixture of grapes and blueberries.
Looking at the variety of tomato varieties, it’s hard not to get confused - the choice is very wide today. Even experienced gardeners are sometimes confused by it! However, understanding the basics of selecting varieties “for yourself” is not so difficult. The main thing is to delve into the peculiarities of the culture and start experimenting. One of the easiest groups of tomatoes to grow are varieties and hybrids with limited growth. They have always been valued by those gardeners who do not have much energy and time to care for their beds.
Once very popular under the name of indoor nettle, and then forgotten by everyone, coleus today is one of the most colorful garden and indoor plants. It is not for nothing that they are considered stars of the first magnitude for those who are primarily looking for non-standard colors. Easy to grow, but not so undemanding as to suit everyone, coleus require constant monitoring. But if you take care of them, bushes made of velvety unique leaves will easily outshine any competitor.
Salmon backbone baked in Provençal herbs provides tasty pieces of fish pulp for a light salad with fresh wild garlic leaves. The champignons are lightly fried in olive oil and then poured over apple cider vinegar. These mushrooms are tastier than regular pickled ones, and they are better suited for baked fish. Wild garlic and fresh dill get along well in one salad, highlighting each other’s aroma. The garlicky pungency of wild garlic will permeate both the salmon flesh and mushroom pieces.
Conifer tree or shrubs on the site is always great, but a lot of conifers is even better. Emerald needles of various shades decorate the garden at any time of the year, and phytoncides and essential oils released by plants not only aromatize, but also make the air cleaner. As a rule, most zoned mature conifers are considered very unpretentious trees and shrubs. But young seedlings are much more capricious and require proper care and attention.
Sakura is most often associated with Japan and its culture. Picnics in the canopy flowering trees have long become an integral attribute of welcoming spring in the Land of the Rising Sun. Financial and academic year here it starts on April 1, when the magnificent cherry blossoms bloom. Therefore, many significant moments in the life of the Japanese take place under the sign of their flowering. But sakura also grows well in cooler regions - certain species can be successfully grown even in Siberia.
I am very interested in analyzing how people's tastes and preferences for certain foods have changed over the centuries. What was once considered tasty and was an item of trade, lost its value over time and, conversely, new fruit crops conquered their markets. Quince has been cultivated for more than 4 thousand years! And even in the 1st century B.C. e. About 6 varieties of quince were known, and even then methods of its propagation and cultivation were described.
Delight your family and prepare themed cottage cheese cookies in the shape of Easter eggs! Your children will be happy to take part in the process - sift the flour, combine all the necessary ingredients, knead the dough and cut out intricate figures. Then they will watch with admiration as pieces of dough turn into real Easter eggs, and then with the same enthusiasm they will eat them with milk or tea. How to make such original cookies for Easter, read our step-by-step recipe!
Among tuberous crops, there are not so many decorative deciduous favorites. And caladium is a true star among the variegated inhabitants of interiors. Not everyone can decide to own a caladium. This plant is demanding, and first of all, it requires care. But still, rumors about the extraordinary capriciousness of caladiums are never justified. Attention and care can avoid any difficulties when growing caladiums. And the plant can almost always forgive small mistakes.
We have prepared a hearty, incredibly appetizing and simply easy-to-prepare dish for you today. This sauce is one hundred percent universal, as it goes with every side dish: vegetables, pasta, or anything. Chicken and mushroom gravy will save you in moments when you don’t have time or don’t want to think too much about what to cook. Take your favorite side dish (you can do this in advance so everything is hot), add some gravy and dinner is ready! A real lifesaver.
Primrose- a herbaceous plant, also known as primrose, which is due to the fact that the flower is one of the first to appear immediately after the snow melts. Primrose is a straight stem with green leaves and bright fragrant flowers (see photo). Scientists consider South and North America to be the homeland of the plant; it is found in forest and forest-steppe zones.
According to legend, primrose appeared when the Apostle Peter, who kept the keys to the gates of heaven, learned that rejected spirits had replaced the keys to heaven. The apostle was so frightened that he dropped the bundle from his hands. In the place where the keys fell, a primrose grew, the flowers of which still remind people of the bunch of keys. In Germany, primrose is known as “heavenly keys”, which is due to the popularity of this legend. In Russia, the plant is simply called “keys” or “God’s hands”.
Primrose for a long time considered a magical flower. According to superstition, a girl who finds a primrose flower at Easter will become someone's wife this year. The plant was part of a love drink. The ancient Roman writer Apuleius, author of the famous work “The Golden Ass,” got into an unpleasant story related to this flower. Apuleius married a rich widow, who was also older than him. The widow's relatives filed a lawsuit against the writer, accusing him of bewitching the unfortunate woman with a love drink that included primrose. Relatives claimed that the marriage of the writer and the widow was concluded fraudulently. Apuleius prepared a speech that convinced the judges, and the writer was acquitted. The writer’s speech was preserved under the title: “Apology, or Speech in defense of oneself against accusations of magic.”
Collection and storage
Primrose is collected during its flowering period, that is, from the beginning of April to the end of June. In traditional medicine, flowers, leaves, and rhizomes of this plant are used. The leaves are harvested before flowering, and pluck only half of the leaf so as not to harm the flowering. The roots are dug closer to autumn. The leaves of the plant are dried in special dryers or indoors. Dried leaves have a pleasant honey aroma, they taste first sweet and then bitter. Store harvested raw materials in paper bags for no more than one year.
Medicinal properties
The healing properties of primrose are due to the presence of vitamins, essential oils, saponins and other substances in the flower. Primrose contains ascorbic acid and carotene. In terms of ascorbic acid content, it is ahead of all other plants, including citrus fruits. Just two or three green leaves fully satisfy the body’s need for vitamin C. Primrose copes well with spring vitamin deficiency and is a valuable source of ascorbic acid. Vitamin C is one of the most powerful antioxidants; it protects cells from premature aging. Ascorbic acid is involved in the process of hematopoiesis and normalizes capillary permeability. Modern man is subject to chronic stress, so his need for vitamin C is higher. Ascorbic acid protects the body from stress and increases the body's resistance to infections. Scientists are currently conducting research on the effect of vitamin C on the condition of cancerous tumors. Vitamin C plays a preventive role in diseases such as cancer of the esophagus, bladder, and endometrium.
Primrose leaves can be applied to wounds for a speedy recovery, the plant has analgesic and healing properties.
Primrose is widely used as a general tonic. The juice of the plant has a tonic effect and can be consumed by adults and children. For chronic stress, insomnia, headaches It is recommended to drink tea from the flowers of the plant.
One of the most famous species of this plant is evening primrose. The seeds of the plant are used to obtain oil, which is highly valued in medicine and cosmetology. When used internally, the oil strengthens the cardiovascular system and reduces the level of bad cholesterol in the blood. The oil helps resist myocardial infarction and stroke, and takes care of the condition of blood vessels. Primrose oil is recommended for women to take internally for the prevention of breast cancer. In addition, the oil helps normalize hormonal levels in women. Primrose has a beneficial effect on the body during depression and increased anxiety.
The oil of this plant is used in cosmetology. for the care of dry and irritation-prone skin. The oil perfectly moisturizes the skin, reduces wrinkles, and improves regeneration processes.
Use in cooking
In cooking, primrose has found use as a food plant. Its leaves are edible and are often added to salads, stir-fries, and first courses. Dried leaves Primrose is used as a seasoning, which is stored in the form of crushed powder. In powder form, the plant retains almost all its beneficial vitamins and minerals.
The roots and leaves of the plant are used for gastronomic purposes. The green leaves of the primrose have a sweetish taste and pleasant aroma. Primrose seasoning is added to meat and fish dishes. The leaves are used when preparing egg dishes. The flowers of the plant have a pleasant sweetish taste, the leaves can be bitter, a little stronger than, for example, the well-known lettuce. Primrose roots have an aniseed aroma and are most often used as a seasoning. For food purposes, it is better to use young leaves and fully bloomed flowers.
Caucasian cuisine has a recipe for making cabbage soup and soups from primrose leaves. In Germany, the flowers of this plant are used to brew a soothing drink called Halle tea. The Swiss make a refreshing effervescent drink from a decoction of flowers that is fermented. In the cuisine of many countries, primrose leaves are added to salads or eaten fresh.
Benefits of primrose and treatment
The benefits of the plant are known folk medicine. Primrose is used as expectorant, effective for bronchitis, tracheitis. An infusion of the leaves or rhizomes of the plant is used as an expectorant. Externally, an infusion of rhizomes is also used to resolve hemorrhages. Primrose is indicated for dry cough, and for “senile cough” - this is a symbol for a specific cough that appears in older people due to a decrease in the contractile force of the heart, which leads to a deterioration in the blood supply to the lungs. The modern pharmaceutical industry produces dry primrose extract in tablet form. “Primulen” is indicated for the treatment of dry cough; syrup from the rhizome of the plant is also a natural expectorant.
Primrose is used as diuretic For this purpose, decoctions and infusions of the plant are prepared. Infusions are effective for kidney diseases and inflammation of the bladder. The decoction is prepared from 15 grams of dry raw materials, which is poured with 1 liter of boiling water, the product is boiled for 15 minutes, and taken 2 times a day.
A decoction of the rhizome helps for pneumonia, migraines, joint pain. The decoction is prepared from 1 tbsp. l. crushed roots, boiled for 10 minutes, take half a glass up to 4 times a day.
Fresh plant juice is recommended for use by people who have suffered serious illnesses. The aerial part of the primrose is thoroughly washed and passed through a meat grinder, then the greens are placed in a glass jar and sprinkled with sugar. Place the jar in a cool place and wait until the plant releases juice; after the primrose begins to release juice abundantly, it is filtered through cheesecloth and placed in the refrigerator. Adults take 1 tbsp juice. l. 30 minutes before meals, 1 tsp will be enough for children. .
In dermatology, the plant is widely known in the treatment baldness, psoriasis, lichen ruber. Primrose is brewed and the affected areas are treated with a warm decoction. An effective remedy also a bath with the addition of primrose.
Primrose infusion is taken internally for skin rashes, boils How effective remedy to cleanse the blood. To speed up recovery, the flowers of the plant are mixed with nettle leaves.
Primrose has a beneficial effect on human conditions with insomnia and neuroses. The flowers of the plant are poured with boiling water and the resulting decoction is drunk at night, the decoction acts as mild sleeping pill. Together with hawthorn flowers, an infusion of primrose will calm a rapid heartbeat.
Harm of primrose and contraindications
Primrose can cause harm to the body during pregnancy, it is not recommended to use this plant in the first trimester of pregnancy.
Primrose can cause allergic reactions; if you are hypersensitive, you should stop taking the decoctions.
From the history:
among many beautiful plants people have long isolated primroses. They did not get lost among the bright splendor of roses. peonies, tulips, gladioli and other equally striking plants. This is surprising when you remember that most primroses are small, modest plants with small flowers. They probably attracted a person’s attention with their early flowering, when the heart, yearning for the long autumn and winter, yearns to meet spring, with the rebirth of life. This is where these delicate golden-yellow flowers appear, coloring the meadow, corners of the park and garden. And although there are other plants that bloom before primroses, it is primroses that have the name “primrose” - the first to bloom. People also call them “rams” (young leaves, wavy and pubescent, similar to the backs of lambs), “keys” (flowers are collected in an inflorescence that resembles a bunch of keys).
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Primula ‘Tie Dye’ Photo by Dubova Galina |
 Primula ‘Captain Blood’ Photo by Dubova Galina |
 Primula ‘Francesca’ Photo by Dubova Galina |
 Primula juliae ‘Sneeuwwitji’ Photo by Dubova Galina |
 Primula acaulis ser. "Daniella" F1 Photo by Dubova Galina |
 Primula "Rowallan Rose" Photo by Mikhail Polotnov |
 Primula cardifolia Photo by Kirill Tkachenko |
 Primula chungensis Photo by Kirill Tkachenko |
 Primula twilly Photo by Kirill Tkachenko |
Primrose was known in ancient times and was considered the medicinal flower of Olympus: it was called dodecatheon (flower of the 12 gods) and was believed to be a cure for all ailments. One of the first spring flowers, the primrose looks like a bunch of golden keys; according to the Old Norse sagas, these are the keys of the fertility goddess Freya, with which she opens spring. According to another legend, these are the sprouted keys to heaven, which St. Peter dropped it to the ground. In some areas Germany- these are the keys of marriage; Even in the times of the Celts and Gauls, primrose was part of the love potion. By Danish According to legends, the elves turned their princess into a primrose when she fell in love with a mere mortal. By ancient Greek According to legend, the primrose arose from the body of the young man Paralysos who died of love, whom the gods, out of compassion, turned into a fragrant flower; Therefore, it was believed that it could cure paralysis, and in medicine until recently it was called the paralysis herb. The miraculous power of the primrose covered many areas: in Piedmont it was believed that it protects from devilish obsessions, drives away demons, makes the bones of innocently dead people crawl out of the ground; V Germany the magical property of tear-grass was attributed to him - to open treasures; V Little Russia it was a talisman protecting life; V England it was a magical flower in which tiny fairies and gnomes live. It is the primrose in Switzerland considered a symbol of happiness, an emblem of love for the motherland.
Primula florindae X waltonii
Photo by Mikhail Polotnov
Primrose enjoys special affection from the English; During the development of Australia, the shipment of primroses to the British who went there assumed extraordinary proportions. In England there are several clubs for lovers of Primrose auricula only, not to mention other species. Auricula are the most popular primroses in England. If in 1597 only a few varieties of this species were grown there, then in 1629 it was already described big number their. Like tulip mania in Holland, England was struck by auriculomania. New varieties of primrose auricula were grown everywhere by both very rich and poor people. Primroses, especially auricula, have become a favorite national flower. In the 17th - 19th centuries, a huge number of their varieties, including terry ones, were obtained in the country. The varieties bred over 350 years ago were called Florist Flowers. They were planted according to certain rules and established standards. However, by the end of the 19th century, these rules lost popularity. During the period of the First and Second World Wars, people had no time for flowers, and collections were preserved only in associations of primrose lovers.
But since 1945, a revival of the culture of primroses in general and auricula in particular began. IN modern England Every year primrose exhibitions are held, where both new and preserved ancient varieties are demonstrated. There is something to show and see. Amazing gray, green, orange, red, two-tone and terry, as if sprinkled with chalk - these auricles never cease to delight and surprise. In general, primroses began to be grown in gardens already in the middle of the 16th century. They successfully competed in Europe with lush carnations. They were depicted in paintings and dishes.
Primula x hybr "Francesca"
Photo of Elena Solovyova
The healing power of spring primrose has long been known among the people: in Germany, dried flowers were used as a nerve-strengthening tea and mixed with wine; in England, young leaves are eaten in the spring as a salad, and the roots are used as a spice; in Rus' it was considered a flower of vigor and health. Flower arrows were eaten; diaphoretic and soothing decoctions and ointments for eczema were prepared from the leaves and flowers; powder from dry leaves was used to treat scurvy; Consumption and fever were treated by boiling the roots in milk. One primrose leaf replenishes the body's daily need for vitamin C, which makes it an indispensable remedy for exhaustion and anemia.
Description: The genus primrose, or primrose (Primula L.), is one of the most numerous genera of plants in the world flora. According to various authors, there are from 400 to 550 species of these plants in nature. Moreover, scientists are still discovering new species of primroses. Most of them (about 300 species) grow in Asia, the Himalayas and western China. Only 33 species grow in Europe, and 20 species grow in North America. Only a few species are found in Africa, South America, Arabia and one species (Primula imperialis) - on the island of Java.
Primula maximowiczii
Photo by Mikhail Polotnov
Many primroses in nature grow in damp places - along the banks of mountain streams and streams, in wet meadows. For example, the Florinda primrose can be found in Tibet, near watercourses at an altitude of about 4000 m, and the fine-toothed primrose can be found in the alpine meadows of the Himalayas at an altitude of 2300-4300 m. The popular primrose auricula (eared) comes from the mountains of the southern and Central Europe, where it lives in rock cracks, between stones, rising to a height of over 2000 m. Wet meadows, banks of streams and streams are favorite places for the beautiful Bulley primrose, growing in China at an altitude of about 3000 m. Japanese primrose lives in the mountain valleys of the Kuril Islands and Japan . As we can see, baby primroses live and thrive in such harsh conditions where others, large plants can't grow. Mountains are a kind of pedestal that raises primroses high above other plants. Some of them grow near snowfields, in very specific environmental conditions. Such species are difficult, and often impossible, to grow in flower beds. In general, plant lovers have long noticed: the most beautiful mountain primroses cannot be grown in gardens. Even if some species grow in culture, they turn out to be short-lived. However, to the delight of gardeners, there are many species that can be cultivated without much difficulty. In general, about 200 species of primroses are now grown in the world, i.e. a third of all known.
Primula x hybr "Russian pearlescent"
Photo by Mikhail Polotnov
The introduction of beautiful Asian primroses (Japanese, fine-toothed, Bulley, Sikkimese, etc.) into ornamental gardening in Europe is associated with the names of famous plant lovers G. Forrest, G. Sherriff, F. Ludlow, F. Ward. The latter introduced 66 new species of primroses into culture.
Primulas are spring-flowering plants, but among them there are also summer-flowering ones, for example, Bis, Florinda, and Bulley primroses. They differ in the color of the flowers, the shape and size of the leaves. In some species the flowers are solitary, in others they are collected in various inflorescences. For example, the amazing Vial primrose has a pyramidal inflorescence with lilac buds that turn into red flowers. The Himalayan primrose fine-toothed flowers are collected in inflorescences-balls of white, lilac color.
Breeders also make their contribution to increasing the diversity of primroses. To date, thousands of varieties have been bred, surprising in color, sometimes two- and three-color, and even double flowers. Particular attention is paid to the selection of auricular primrose (auricula), the variety of colors of which seems to have surpassed all possible dreams of flower growers. Among them there are even varieties with gray and green petals! The pride of flower growers are varieties whose petals are “shaded” in different colors and even “powdered.”
Some types of primroses have long been grown indoors as a potted crop. Nowadays in this
Numerous modern varieties of common primrose play a role. Planted in small containers or baskets, they are especially readily sold out before the New Year and the 8th of March holiday. Bright, cheerful and at the same time, like all spring flowers, delicate, primroses do not get lost against the background of traditional bouquets of roses, gerberas, and chrysanthemums.
IN landscape design Primroses have long been one of the most beloved plants. Some believe that, unlike the “cold” tulips and daffodils, primroses are “warmer” and therefore more attractive. Even the only modest primrose bush in the spring garden with yellow “key” flowers is sure to attract the eye. When you see bright groups of numerous colorful spring beauties, you understand why it is primroses that open the joyful flowering of the kingdom of Flora.
"Wockey"
\Photo by Irina Mersiyanova
The genus of primrose has been studied quite fully by botanists. Back in 1817, Lehmann’s monograph was published, then the works of Duby, Decandolle, Schot, Kaminsky, Ruprecht, Pax and others appeared, containing classifications of the genus. Russian botanists N.I. made a great contribution to the study of the taxonomy of the genus. Kuznetsova, E.A. Bush, E. Regel, A.S. Lozina-Lozinskaya.
Botanists divide the genus Primrose into 7 subgenera (Aleuritia, Auganthus, Auriculastrum, Carolinella, Craibia, Primula, Sphondylia). However, in ornamental gardening they use a different classification, more convenient for practical work, in which all primroses, depending on their morphological features divided into 23 sections.
Primula x loiseleurii "Lismore Yellow"
Photo by Mikhail Polotnov
In conditions middle zone Only some species from individual sections of the genus can be grown in open ground. Below is a brief description of them.
Includes about 90 species. Plants with a yellow or white powdery coating. Flower petals are usually shorter than the calyx leaves. The flowers are mostly lilac, reddish-violet, yellow or white.
Plants do not last long in cultivation. They are usually grown as biennials. Most species are native to Asia. Grow in moist, well-drained, humus-rich soils in sunny or partial shade. They need winter shelter. Replant in early spring. Used for planting near ponds, on shady rocky hills, along streams on hills.
Primula subgenus: Aleuritia section: Soldanelloides
Norwegian primrose-Primula finmarchicaPrimula subgenus: Aleuritia section: Aleuritia
Siberian primrose- Primula sibirica
Primula daryal - Primula darialicaPrimula subgenus: Aleuritia section: Crystallophlomis
Powdery primrose - Primula farinosa L.
Primula foliage - Primula frondosa Janka
Primrose Hallera - Primula halleri J.F.Gmel
Scottish primrose- Primula scotica
Primrose cold- Primula algida
Snow primrose- Primula nivalisPrimula subgenus: Aleuritia section: Proliferae
Turkestan primrose- Primula turcestanica
Primula chionanta- Primula chionantha
Primrose hungen-Primula chungensis Bali. f. et Ward.Primula subgenus: Aleuritia section: Sikkimensis
Alpine primrose fine-toothed-Primula microdenta var. alpicola W.W.
Includes small to medium-sized perennial primroses that bloom in early spring and feature smooth, serrated leaves and pink flowers with a yellow eye. A typical representative is Primrose pink- Primula rosea Royle.
Includes 21 species, all of them of European origin. The plants are low growing with jagged woody roots. The leaves are succulent and leathery. The stems and flowers seem to be sprinkled with a powdery coating. The flowers are pink, lilac, purple, often with a white eye, or yellow. The petals are oval, their width, as a rule, exceeds their length. Many varieties have been developed with very different flower colors.
Propagated by seeds, which are sown in October-November. Many species do not completely repeat the properties of their parents. They need to be isolated or pollinated artificially. Seeds sown before winter germinate the following spring. When sowing in spring, it is recommended to freeze the seeds by covering the pots with snow for several days. The sown seeds are sprinkled with a thin layer of sand. The bushes are divided immediately after flowering. Low growing varieties and forms are propagated by cuttings of rhizomes.
Primula subgenus: Auriculastrum section: Auricula subsection: Euauricula
Primrose carniolian- Primula carniolicaPrimula subgenus: Auriculastrum section: Auricula subsection: Arthritica
Primula aurica, or auricula - Primula auricula L.
Primula pubescent- Primula x pubescens Jacqui.
Primula coarse-haired- Primula hirsuta All, P. rubra F. Gmel.
Primrose fringed- Primula marginata
Primrose Delescluze- Primula clusiana Tausch.Primula subgenus: Auriculastrum section: Auricula subsection: Erythrodrosum
Primula hairy - Primula villosa WulfPrimula subgenus: Auriculastrum section: Auricula subsection: Chamaecallis
Primrose small - Primula minima L.Section of Corthusoides
In addition to the cortus primrose, which is found from Siberia to Europe, this section also contains twenty-three species of Asian primroses growing in Japan, Korea, and China. Plants without powdery coating. The leaves are petiolate. The flowers are funnel-shaped.
These primroses are quite easy to grow if they are planted in humus-rich soils. They grow equally successfully in the sun and in partial shade. They often self-sow and naturalize. Typically, section species are planted in landscape gardens among rhododendrons and evergreen trees. They are propagated by seeds; Siebold's primrose and its varieties are propagated by division and rhizome segments.
Primula subgenus: Auganthus section: Cortusoides
Primula polynervosa- Primula polyneuraSection of denticulate primroses (Denticulaia)
Primrose cortusiformes - Primula cortusoides
Primrose rock - Primula saxatilis
Primula Siebold- Primula sieboldii
Primrose rejected- Primula patens Turcz.
Primrose capitata - Primula capitataSection Julia
Primrose fine-toothed- Primula denticulata Smith
Includes only one species and its hybrids
Primrose Julia- Primula juliae Kusn.Section Muscarioides
Primula Prugonica - Primula x pruhoniciana hort. .
Includes 17 species from the Himalayas, Tibet and western China. The plants are distinguished by their original pointed cylindrical inflorescences. Most species in cultivation are rarely perennial. As a rule, they are biennials. In order to have flowering primroses of this section in the garden every year, their seeds must be sown annually (like other biennials). It is better to grow them in partial shade. These species require quite a lot of moisture during the growing season, and in the autumn-winter period, on the contrary, excess moisture destroys the plants. During this period, they need rather dry soil. Plants prefer soils consisting of a mixture of topsoil, peat and river sand. For the winter they are well covered or transferred to cold greenhouses. They grow late in the spring - at the end of May.
They reproduce by seeds, which are sown densely.
Primrose orchid, or vial - Рrimula vialiiSection Primula
Primula muscariformes- Primula muscarioides
Includes four European species, naturally distributed in Europe, Asia Minor, the Urals, the Caucasus, and Iran. These plants do not have a powdery coating. Almost all types of sections have long been cultivated and used in breeding. They are unpretentious and easy to grow. They reproduce easily by dividing bushes and seeds.
Primrose is lovely- Primula amoena Bieb.Section of candelabra primroses (Proliferae, Candelabra)
Primrose high- Primula elatior
High primrose hybrids- Primula Elatior Hybrids
Primula polyanthus, or primrose multiflorum- Primula poliantha
Spring primrose-Primula veris
Primula vulgaris, or stemless-Primula vulgaris = P. acaulis
Primula Voronova - Primula voronowii A.Los.
Primula Komarova - Primula komarovii A.Los
Primrose of Pallas- Primula pallasii
Primula macrocalyx– Primula macrocalyx
Primrose Ruprecht-Primula ruprechtii
Includes about 30 species, growing mainly in the mountains of southwest China, Burma, India, the mountains of Japan, Sumatra, and Java. Gardeners appreciated these large plants with bright rings (tiers) of inflorescences on tall peduncles. In addition, species in this section bloom in summer. Thanks to all the listed qualities, these primroses are grown in the middle zone, although they have to be well covered for the winter.
The leaves of the plants are large, and in some species they are evergreen. All species of this section are most often biennials and only in very good conditions- perennials. They are grown in moist, fertile, humus-rich soil in semi-shaded and sometimes shady areas. Heavy soils are improved by applying the mixture turf land and peat, fine gravel for drainage. Plants of these species are easy to grow from seeds. It is better to divide the bushes at the beginning of summer, when the queen cells are stronger and healthier, and the divisions have time to take root well before the fall. When grown in semi-shaded areas, plants often self-sow.
Primula Byssa-Primula beesiana ForrFor practical floriculture, German experts have proposed a classification of species, varieties and hybrids of primroses, which is based on the shape and arrangement of inflorescences or flowers on plants. Five groups have been identified.
Primrose Bullea-Primula bulleyana Forr.
Primrose Cockburn-Primula coekburniana Hemsl
Primrose powdered- Primula pulverulenta Duthie
Japanese primrose- Primula japonica A. Gray
- 1. Cushion-shaped- solitary flowers, each on its own short peduncle, slightly rising above the rosette of leaves. These are Voronova primrose, small primrose, common primrose, Yulia primrose, etc.
- 2. Umbrella-shaped- flowers are collected in a one-sided or round umbrella, rising above the rosette of leaves on a peduncle up to 20 cm high. These are spring primrose, high primrose, rejected primrose, pink primrose, polyanthus, auricular primrose, hybrids of auricular primrose, etc.
- 3. Capitate or spherical- the flowers are collected in dense capitate inflorescences on a strong peduncle, the height of which during the flowering period is 15-20 cm, and during the fruiting period - 30-45 cm. These are capitate primrose, fine-toothed primrose and its varieties.
- 4. Tiered or candelabra - the flowers are collected in whorled inflorescences, consisting of several tiers, located on strong peduncles and very similar to candelabra. They bloom in mid-summer. The flowers are wide-open, small, about 1 cm in diameter. The rosettes are powerful, the leaves are elongated, basal. They prefer loose, nutritious soils. Moisture-loving. They are short-lived and require regular rejuvenation. Most species are hardy. In cold, snowless winters, dry shelter is necessary. The most hardy species growing in the wet mountain meadows of China are Byss primrose, Bulley's primrose, powdered primrose, and Japanese primrose.
- 5. Campanulate - inflorescences consist of drooping or drooping flowers and are located above a beautiful rosette of leaves on peduncles of varying heights:
- Sikkimese primrose - P. sikkimensis
Florinda's Primrose - R. florindae
There are a large number of species little known to gardeners. Photos of primroses that are not included in the above groups...
All described types of primroses, despite the difference in origin and place of growth, are quite unpretentious and winter-hardy. In central Russia they freeze out extremely rarely and remain decorative even with minimal care. Early and long flowering makes them indispensable in areas with cool and humid climates.
In order for primroses to bloom magnificently, it is important to choose the right site and provide the necessary care. This is not difficult to do if you know where primroses grow in nature and try to create similar conditions for them in your garden.
Location: Some types of primroses grow in open areas, others most often in shade, among grasses of mountain and foothill meadows, bushes and trees, on northern mountain slopes, in rock crevices, between stones. But both species in the middle zone are best grown in shaded areas or in areas shaded during the midday hours. This could be a shady corner of the garden, among fruit or other deciduous trees, or a flower garden, illuminated by the sun only in the morning, located on the east side of the house. On rocky hills, primroses are best planted on the east, north or west side.
The soil: soil water regime - important element successful growing of plants. For primroses it is especially relevant. After all, in nature they grow on moist soils, often near snowfields, along mountain streams or rivers. Therefore, in flower beds they should not lack moisture, but the soil should not be damp. Most species do not like stagnant water. Moist, well-drained soil is what they need. Primroses require especially a lot of moisture in the spring. At this time, in the mountains, where most of them come from, the snow melts, and the plants literally bathe in water - for this reason they are not afraid of cold spring water. In the middle zone, April and May, when growth and flowering of most types of primroses begin, are often dry and sunny. Lack of moisture in the soil during this critical period for growth and development leads to weakening of plants and a decrease in their decorative value. Therefore, in the spring you need to keep the soil on the site moist and make sure that it does not dry out. Moreover, gardeners successfully grow some primroses (for example, Siebold's primrose) even immersed in 1-2 cm of water! Primroses are not recommended to be planted on high ridges, where the soil usually dries out quickly.
Soil nutrition and fertilizing. In nature, some types of primroses, for example Hallera, Julia, shaggy, coarse-haired, grow on rocky slopes, settle between stones, in crevices where the nutrient soil layer is small. Other species (Japanese primrose, fine-toothed, Florinda, Bisa, Siebold, etc.) are plants of meadows and forests, river valleys, river banks, preferring fertile soils and shading. In the garden, both species need to be grown in nutritious, loose soils. Particularly good are cultivated loose clay soils, which contain many nutrients and retain moisture.
Heavy clay soils Primroses are not suitable. To improve them, add sand (a bucket per 1 m2), vermiculite, chopped sphagnum moss, and also add up to 20 kg of organic fertilizers per 1 m2 or replace the top soil layer (20 cm) with a prepared nutrient mixture. For the second and third years, it is enough to pay only mineral fertilizers, and phosphorus and potassium - in the fall.
Light soils, where there are few nutrients, require at least 15-20 kg per 1 m2 of organic fertilizers: decomposed humus (5 kg), compost or leaf soil (10 kg), weathered peat (5 kg), which not only enrich the soil with nutrients substances, but also improve its structure and water regime. For more luxuriant flowering of plants, 20 g of phosphorus and potassium and 10-15 g of nitrogen fertilizers are added to the mixture. If all the components are not available, then the mixture is made up of two, adding them in the following quantities: 10 kg of compost soil and 10 kg of humus, or 15 kg of humus or compost soil and 5 kg of peat. Peat crumbs or leaf soil should make up a quarter of the applied organic fertilizers.
Care: do not require much care. The soil should always be moist, loose and free of weeds. In loose soil, roots form faster in young rosettes. During the growing season, plants are fed three times. The first feeding is carried out in early spring, the second - after 2-3 weeks, the third - at the end of July-mid-August with phosphorus-potassium fertilizers. Primulas are very responsive to the application of slurry during the growing season. Every year, 2-3 cm of loose nutritious soil is poured under the primrose bushes, and it is even better to cover the entire area occupied by plants with this layer.
Over the course of 3-4 years, the primrose bushes grow, and new rosettes begin to crowd each other. Therefore, after 3-4 years they are planted, i.e. They divide the bushes. If this is not done, the plants become smaller, flowering weakens, and decorativeness is lost.
For a good overwintering of plants, it is important to preserve the rosette of leaves until late autumn, as it serves as a natural shelter. It is recommended to cover species such as fine-toothed and common primrose with dry tree leaves in a layer of 10 cm for the winter. Japanese primrose, Clusiana, Sibtorpa, Siebold are recommended to be covered in late autumn with a layer of leaves up to 10 cm.
Experienced flower growers recommend plucking rosettes of leaves from fine-toothed primula, Japanese primrose, and Florinda, leaving no more than three or four in each bush. This technique contributes, firstly, to more luxuriant flowering of plants, and secondly, to a reduction in the incidence of rot of leaves and root collars.
Diseases and pests: primrose can be affected by stem and root collar rot, rust, white rust, bacterial leaf spot, anthracnose, powdery mildew, jaundice, cucumber mosaic and tomato spotted wilt viruses, leaf, stem and root-knot nematodes, aphids, weevils, spider mite, slugs, beetles, fleas, etc.
The greatest damage to primroses is caused by spots caused by the fungus. Ramularia cercosporella.
The disease manifests itself in late spring and early summer. Round or angular spots are visible on the leaves, initially pale, then gray or brown with a yellowish border. In mid and late summer, a gray or white coating forms on the spots - conidial sporulation of fungi. The affected leaves gradually dry out, the flowering of the plant weakens, and the primroses lose their decorative effect.
Control measures . Diseased leaves are removed and destroyed. Plants are sprayed with foundationazole (2%), topsin (0.2%), and zineb (1.5%). Bordeaux mixture (1%) and copper oxychloride (0.5%) are also used. Plants are treated in early spring and after flowering. In autumn, primroses are sprayed with nitrafen (1%).
Observations have shown that Japanese, fine-toothed, and Florinda primroses are not affected by spots; single spots are found on auricular, Pallas, and pink primroses; an average degree of damage (up to 25%) was noted in spring primrose, common, high, and strong (50% and above) - at the primrose Julia, Prugonitskaya.
Reproduction: The fruits of most species ripen in July-August. Primroses are propagated by seeds, dividing the bush and leaf cuttings.
Seeds primrose quickly lose their viability. For example, the germination of seeds stored until spring sowing, especially at high temperatures (20 °C), is reduced by 20-40% or more. In addition, germination of seeds, even if stored for only a few weeks, will be delayed. Therefore, it is best to sow freshly collected seeds - immediately after collection in open ground or better in boxes installed in the ground, so as not to lose seedlings. In the greenhouse, sowing is carried out in early February. For most plants, a substrate made from a mixture of leaf humus (2 parts), turf soil and sand (1 part each) is suitable. Sow them superficially, no more than 5 grains per 1 cm, press down and place in a film bag. Close and place in the freezer for 3-4 weeks at a temperature no higher than minus 10°C. After freezing, place the crops of pink primrose, p. pubescent, p. Florinda and p. japonica on the window, shade them from direct sun, try not to overdry. Temperature for germination is 16-18°C. Germination of seeds sown in winter is accelerated if the crops are covered with snow for several days. Primrose seeds sown in autumn germinate in 14-18 weeks, and sown in spring - in 20-30 days. After freezing, sowings of high primrose and Siebold's pear are planted in the dark at the same temperature as for the above-mentioned species. As soon as the seeds hatch, they are moved to the light, but with shade.
Common primrose and small-toothed primrose do not need freezing. Crops of the first type are germinated in the light, the second - in the dark. After the emergence of seedlings, the bags are opened slightly and gradually begin to accustom the seedlings to the air, but continue to provide shade from direct sun. After 10-12 days, when the seedlings have grown and become stronger, the bags are removed. Primrose seedlings grow very slowly. It is important to ensure that the substrate underneath is constantly moist.
When one or two true leaves appear, the seedlings dive into boxes. You can plant the seedlings directly into the ground to a permanent place. Landing distance for small species 10 - 15 cm, for larger ones - 20 - 30 cm. Primroses should be planted in such a way that the plantings are closed and there is no open space between the rosettes of leaves, since plants do not like this. They grow for two years, covering them with a 10 cm layer of foliage for the winter. They are planted in a permanent place in the spring or autumn of the second year. Young plants bloom in the second or third year.
Sometimes, during unfavorable winters, plants freeze or damp out. So that the garden does not remain without their bright flowers, you should always save the seeds from last year’s harvest until spring. They should be stored in a cool place (for example, on a balcony or just outside a window, in a basement, in a refrigerator), mixed with sand or soil.
Japanese primrose must be periodically propagated by seeds, since more lush flowering occurs in 2-3 year old plants.
Primroses are divided usually in the third to fifth year of cultivation, when they have grown sufficiently, in early spring or summer, in late July - August. You can do this immediately after flowering. The plant must be dug up, the soil must be thoroughly shaken off its roots, and the remaining soil must be washed off with water in a bucket. You can divide a plant without such preparation, but it is much more convenient to work with clean plants.
The best time for planting bushes is August and the first half of September. If transplanted later, they may freeze and suffer from bulging in the spring (in this case, after the snow melts, the plants must be pressed tightly to the ground). Such plants often freeze out in winter.
Most primroses are spring flowering plants. April and May are the period of their active growth. After flowering and seed ripening, primroses enter a period of summer dormancy. At the beginning of August, plants “wake up” - the growth of roots and leaves is activated, flower buds are laid, which in the spring of next year will turn into beautiful flowers. This feature of plant development determines the optimal period for their division: August - the first ten days of September or early spring, although species common in gardens (primrose Julia, tall, many-flowered, Siebold) tolerate replanting well even at the time of flowering. But it is advisable to divide fine-toothed primrose, which blooms in spring, in early spring or in August. The plant tolerates later division worse and may freeze in winter.
Summer-flowering primroses Florinda, Bisa, and Japanese are not winter-hardy enough in the conditions of the middle zone and are best planted in the spring, before flowering.
The plants are watered before digging. Using a knife, the plant is divided into several parts. The size can be chosen arbitrarily, but each part must have at least one renewal bud. The surface of the cuts should be sprinkled with ash. The prepared planting material should not dry out. It must be planted in the ground as soon as possible, labeled and watered.
The dug up bushes are divided into rosettes and planted at a distance of 10-15 cm, and large species (fine-toothed primrose, Florinda) at a distance of 20-30 cm from each other. In general, it is good that there is no open space between neighboring bushes, especially small species. Then the rosettes of leaves shade the soil near the bush, and it dries out less. It is advisable to water the transplanted plants daily for 10-12 days, especially if the weather is dry.
In case of later autumn planting It is better to cover the plants for the winter.
Division allows not only to obtain planting material, but also to rejuvenate the plant. If primroses grow in one place for a long time without replanting, then the flowering of old bushes weakens, and the rhizome with the bulk of the roots, located close to the soil surface, is exposed. In winters with little snow, such bushes can freeze, and in hot weather they can dry out. Therefore, every autumn, starting from the second year, nutritious soil must be added to the plants to cover the rhizome.
Many species, such as Primula auricula, reproduce in small rosettes of leaves, which easily take root in cold greenhouses or in beds, with obligatory shade. It takes root in 15-20 days. Here they overwinter, and in the spring they are planted in a permanent place. Serrated primrose can be propagated root cuttings. Large specimens of this species have several thick roots. To accelerate the formation of buds, a longitudinal cut 1-1.5 cm long is made in the upper part of the root. The prepared cuttings are planted in light soil to a depth of 3 cm. Further care carried out using conventional technology.
Usage: unpretentiousness when growing, cold resistance, early and very long flowering have made primrose indispensable in places with a cool and humid climate.
It is recommended to plant primroses under a not too dense tree canopy and in open sunny places in single and mixed plantings with other perennials. If you make even a small collection of representatives of this extensive genus, it will decorate the garden from early spring to mid-summer. From primroses, you can choose varieties for any place in your garden. You can use them to create ridges, groups on the lawn, decorate waste corners, rocky slides. Primroses perfectly decorate flower beds of various shapes and configurations, artificial mini-reservoirs, and garden vases.
In any garden there are always more or less inconvenient places where, it seems, nothing good will grow. In this case, primroses will help out. Among them you can choose a group of the most unpretentious species, which, although they do not shine with special brightness and beauty, will still delight you with their freshness. These species include spring primrose (R. veris), ordinary (R. vulgaris), large-cupped (R. macrocalyx). In addition, these species have many garden forms and hybrids. More colorful and decorative, but also not particularly demanding on growing conditions, are species such as fine-toothed, tall, auricular, and Japanese primroses. The flowering of primroses is quite long and stretches from April to the end of June. Primroses look good both in single plantings and in groups. When selecting plants for group plantings, it is necessary to take into account the flowering time and the size of the leaf rosettes. Plants blooming in turns will increase the decorativeness of the flower bed, and the closed foliage will not allow weeds to appear. A group of varieties and garden forms of spring primrose will look very good on the lawn. In early spring, it will delight you with abundant flowering, purity and brightness of colors. By planting pure spring primrose, you can use its leaves to prepare vitamin-rich salads.
Primroses feel good not only on flat horizontal areas. Neither an alpine hill nor a decorative pond can do without them. Primrose Julia is very suitable for planting on a hill (R. juliae), auricular, rocky (R. saxatilis). They are all very different from each other and will create the necessary variety.
To design a reservoir, you will need primroses that grow wild at high altitudes of the Himalayan range, mainly in wetlands and stream banks. These species include the magnificent Florinda primroses (R. florindae), alpine (R. alpicola), Sikkimese (R. sikkimensis). In addition to decorative qualities, these species have a wonderful aroma. They are the best spring decoration for gardens and parks. They should be placed under a sparse canopy of trees in single and mixed plantings. Primroses grow well in containers (box, barrel, flowerpot, etc.). Decoratively stable, long-blooming perennials form variegated carpets of delicate, cheerful colors during flowering. Serrated primrose and Japanese primrose can also be used for cutting.
The beauty and variety of appearance, flowering form and colors of representatives of the rich family of primroses will certainly not leave collectors indifferent. When choosing a place, a specialized area that will be allocated for a collection of primroses, specify only the plant requirements in terms of soil, moisture and light, and it is not at all necessary to allocate a separate area for your favorite flowers. If you have collected several varieties of tall primrose and polyantha, you can plant them along the path leading from the entrance to the site to the door of the house, or create a large group on the lawn. Garden forms Japanese primrose with pink, lilac, white flowers, its natural appearance with bright purple inflorescences - here is another mini-collection that will fit perfectly into a rhododendron garden and give it a unique flavor. A group of varieties from Primrose Julia will create a reliable, stable border for a flower bed and at the same time demonstrate all the variety of colors.
Recently, it has been popular to grow primroses in containers - bowls, carts, baskets, etc. In this case, it is good to use water-retaining gels, which will maintain the quickly drying container soil in the moist state necessary for primroses.
Forcing primroses: Plants intended for forcing are planted in containers in July, which are left in the garden until the autumn cold, and then transferred to a cool room or left in the garden, covered with leaves or any other material. 1-1.5 months before the desired flowering period, the containers are transferred to a bright, warm place. In spring, faded primroses are divided and planted in the garden.
Partners: go well with daffodils, scylla, muscari, phlox, and low irises.
Read:
Tatiana SHAPOVAL "Reflections on Primroses"
Galina KULYGINA "Agrotechnics Primrose"
M. SYUVALEPP Primroses of Estonian selection
E. LIVENTAAL Forcing by March 8
Materials used:
Vavilova L.P. "Primrose: Popular Science Edition." - M.: Armada-press, 2001. - 32 p.: ill. - (Plant it yourself).
Lunina N.M. "Primroses" - M.: Publishing house. House of SMEs, 2006. - 48 p.