Cowslip
Primula veris · Primulaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant cowslip: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, basal rosette of wrinkled leaves
- Flowering
- Spring (April-May)
- Adult size
- 20 to 30 cm in height
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -20°C)
- Origin
- Europe and Asia Minor
- Soil type
- Well-drained, rich in organic matter
Care
Watering
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during the growing season, especially during flowering. Reduce watering in autumn and winter when the plant goes dormant. Avoid wetting the foliage to prevent rot.
Light exposure
Prefer a semi-shaded to sunny location, ideally with a few hours of direct morning sun. In light part-shade, the plant flowers generously and is less prone to summer drought.
Soil and drainage
Plant in rich, slightly alkaline or neutral, well-drained soil enriched with compost or potting soil. Good soil structure promotes root development and crown longevity.
Fertilizer
Apply a balanced diluted fertilizer in spring when the first leaves appear. Moderate feeding is sufficient; excess promotes foliage at the expense of flowers.
Deadheading and maintenance
Remove spent flowers to extend flowering and prevent plant exhaustion. At the end of the season, clear away dead leaves to promote aeration and overall rosette health.
Diseases and pests
Watch for crown rot in case of excessive moisture: improve drainage. Vine weevils and aphids can affect the foliage; good air circulation limits these problems.
Did you know?
Cowslip was revered in the Middle Ages under the name 'St. Peter's Keys,' as its umbellate flowers resembled a bunch of keys. It long featured in traditional herbalism for its supposed tonic properties, and remains emblematic of spring's return in Europe.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.