Common Primrose is a
native
perennial plant of the UK, typically found growing in woodlands and hedgerows, to a mature height of up to 20cm.
Primrose takes its name from the Latin for 'prime', referring to its early flowering period. It bears its flowers singly on individual flowering stems. Primrose is a native plant that has been cultivated as an ornamental garden plant. Wild Primrose flowers are scented with pale yellow petals and a deep yellow flower centres, whereas cultivars have flowers in a wide range of pastel and vibrant colours and differing colour patterns. The presence of established wild Primrose can be an indicator of ancient woodland.
Botanic classification and naming: Common Primrose is a member of the Primrose (Primulaceae) family. The genus name
'Primula' identifies the plant as a Primrose and its species name 'vulgaris' means 'common species'.
Concerns: Primrose populations can be depleted by human activity and hot, dry summers.
Benefits: Primrose provides an early springtime food source for bees and other insects. It is also a food source for butterfly and moth caterpillars, including the rare Duke of Burgundy butterfly.
Benefits to wildlife are also indicated with orange icons in the plant profile bar at the top.
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