Primula florindae
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GIANT COWSLIP, GIANT HIMALAYAN COWSLIP, NUTMEG PRIMULA
Family: Primulaceae
GROWING GUIDE
Geographic Origin:
Southeast Tibet.
Plant Group:
Perennial.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: A2, A3; 3-6, 15-17.
USDA zones: 3-8.
Mature size:
Height: 36 inches (90 cm).
Width: 8-16 inches (20-40 cm).
Flowering period:
June to July.
Flowering attributes:
Umbels of about 40 very fragrant, tubular or funnel-shaped, nodding yellow flowers.
Leaf attributes:
Deciduous, ovate, toothed leaves.
Growth habit:
Rosette-forming.
Light:
Partial shade. Full sun if soil is kept moist at all times.
Soil:
Moist, humus-rich, neutral to acidic soil. P. florindae will thrive
in standing water or streamsides.
Feeding:
Side dress with compost or manure. Fertilize monthly, spring through early summer with a complete organic fertilizer.
Propagation Methods:
Sow seed and keep at 64-71ºF (18-22ºC) for 2-4 weeks; then
move to temperatures at 24-39ºF (-4 to +4ºC) for 4-6 weeks. | Divide in
early spring.
Pests and Diseases:
Aphids or spider mites may be a problem.
Rainy Side Notes
Of all the primroses, Primula florindae or Giant cowslip, is the most fragrant of them all with a wonderful nutmeg scent. It is the largest of the primroses, as well as the latest in the season to flower. Himalayan plant explorer Frank Kingdon-Ward named this primrose after his wife Florinda.
Imagine a problem wet area in your garden, planted with the giant Gunnera manicata and sweeps of Giant cowslip at their feet. Add a few Japanese iris for a spikey contrast and you have the makings of a beautiful bog garden. All these plants are perfectly suited to grow in boggy conditions. Problem solved! P. florindae can be grown in regular garden conditions as long as supplemental water is given during our annual summer drought.
Debra Teachout-Teashon
Photographed in author's garden.
Recommended Reading:
Primula::
John Richards
Click amazon.com button for more information or to purchase book.
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Book Description: This classic text has been updated and revised by the leading primulas expert. Primula is among the largest and most widespread garden genera with approximately 430 species. This new edition includes a major taxonomic revision, evolutionary history of the genus, history of the exploration and introduction of Primula, cultivation, propagation and hybridization techniques, and a discussion of pests and diseases. This book is beautifully illustrated with over 100 drawings and photographs.
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