Acaulis

Informal plants with the same shape and habit as the familiar wild primrose. As opposed to the polyanthus forms, the hybrids of the Primula acaulis produce a profusion of individual flowers on single stems. These strains maintain the form of the old named primroses - most of which have now vanished - but they are stronger in constitution and much more enthusiastic in performance. Each plant is a softly fragrant bonanza of blossom. Pick the flowers for your first spring posies - for each blossom plucked, another long scrolled bud springs up. They are of course fully hardy and will self-seed freely in the garden producing a lovely mixture of colours. These are great plants for the early pollinators.

Flowering time: February to April

Culture: Acaulis primroses are happy in a semi-shade. They need a damp cool soil. and will do well in garden beds or pots. Add some well-rotted manure and garden compost before planting. May be divided every couple of years. 

For more tips on growing acaulis see the section on Primroses and Polyanthus.