The first flower of Spring
Some sources suggest that the name primrose [Primula vulgaris] comes from the medieval name 'prime rose' or first flower of spring. Whatever the origin of the name you can't help but smile when you see the first big pats in flower in hedgerows and along wood edges - the pale yellow flowers positively shine out.

Primroses have been collected, selected and bred for many centuries. In the 16th Century oddities included 'Hose-in-Hose', one flower growing out of another and 'Jack-in-the-Green', the flower being surrounded by a green ruff. Until recently Barnhaven were one of the few seed suppliers, however renewed interest has seen the launch of new selections. Double primroses were also highly prized, the white 'Alba Plena' was mentioned in the 1500's and 'Quaker's Bonnet ', a pale lilac, probably dates to the 18th century. There are a number of more modern doubles available including the pretty 'Dawn Ansell' which has white flowers surrounded by a snug green ruff, 'Miss Indigo', deep purple-blue petals with a white edge, and 'Captain Blood', a rich red.

Another old primula that has staged a comeback over the last few years is the laced polyanthus. The flowers are on long stems like a cowslip, the dark petals are edged and divided with a gold or silver line which makes them look as though they have more than five petals. Their peak of popularity was between 1820 - 1840 when they were shown competitively by florists' societies, who were akin to the dahlia and fuchsia enthusiasts of today. Plants can be found in many garden centres and a rarer double hybrid 'Elizabeth Killelay' is available from specialist nurseries.

The next native primula to flower is the gorgeously scented golden cowslip or cowslop, [Primula veris] so called, because unlike the primrose, it grows in open meadows and was associated with grazing cows! These plants were once so common that girls used to make 'tissty-tossty's', round balls comprised entirely of cowslip flowers. Cowslips are easy to grow in open sunny situations and if you want something a bit special there is a double, 'Katy McSparron'.

April is the month for the primula 'prima donna', the auricula. If you enjoy exquisite miniatures and a whiff of past elegance these are the ones for you. The stiff petals and white mealing that some display, make them appear hand crafted. Colours include green petals, astonishing deep blues, blacks and golds, in singles, doubles and stripes and they are often richly scented. Originally a natural cross between alpine species they were bred and shown in Europe and the UK from around the early 18th century, and can be seen in Dutch and Belgian flower paintings such as those by Jan van Huysum.

Enthusiasts normally grow auriculas in pots although the border types are happy to grow in the garden. If you have a lightly shaded space outside, however small, then you can grow these floral jewels. If you want to make the acquaintance of True Briton, Gizabroon or Queenbee, the National Auricula and Primula Society have an annual show at Saltford Village Hall in mid April check website for details [entrance fee payable].

Primroses prefer partial or dappled shade, moisture and a fairly rich soil to grow well and will need dividing every two years or so to get the best flowers. Or on a sunny day this month why not go for a walk in the countryside and look out for primroses and cowslips. Visit the Avon Wildlife Trust web site which gives information on some likely spots to find them [no picking though].

Originally published in the The Bath Magazine April 2004.

Links:
Avon Wildlife Trust
Barnhaven Seeds
Kari's garden article on Auriculas
National Auricula and Primula Society
Saltford Auricula Show April 2004