Other Alpine hybrids

Primula marginata, Primula allionii and their many hybrids are usually classified as European Alpine Primula. They are native to the mountainous regions of Europe and often include hybrids with P. auricula and P. hirsuta as well. They are essential treasures in the rock garden, trough or alpine house for that very early burst of colour that foretells the coming of spring. They are the earliest flowering group of Primulas, and are often treasured for the masses of small flowers and often interesting foliage.

These are very fiddly to pollinate as they are so small so we just collect the open-pollinated seed from all our mother plants. There are usually some lovely results. 

Flowering period: Mid winter – early spring

Height: 10-15 cm

Culture: They need a rich, moist but well-drained soil and like all Primulas they should not dry out in the summer. Many are suited to a cold greenhouse or alpine house and some of them need protection from winter wet but many of the hybrids are a lot tougher and will grow well outside in troughs and screes. They are not fast growing, but on the plus side will put up with a lot more neglect and starvation than other primulas. 

For more information on sowing Alpine European Primula see the section on sowing Alpines