Primula florindae
GIANT COWSLIP, GIANT HIMALAYAN COWSLIP, NUTMEG PRIMULA
Family: Primulaceae
Quick Jumps
Growing Guide
Rainy Side Notes
GROWING GUIDE

Origin:
Southeast Tibet.
Plant Group:
Perennial.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: A2, A3; 3-6, 15-17.
USDA zones: 3-8.
Mature size:
Height: 36 inches (90 cm).
Width: 8-16 inches (20-40 cm).
Flowering period:
June to July.
Flowering attributes:
Umbels of about 40 very fragrant, tubular or funnel-shaped, nodding yellow flowers.
Leaf attributes:
Deciduous, ovate, toothed leaves.
Growth habit:
Rosette-forming.
Light:
Partial shade. Full sun if soil is kept moist at all times.
Soil:
Moist, humus-rich, neutral to acidic soil. P. florindae will thrive
in standing water or streamsides.
Feeding:
Side dress with compost or manure. Fertilize monthly, spring through early summer with a complete organic fertilizer.
Propagation Methods:
Sow seed and keep at 64-71°F (18-22°C) for 2-4 weeks; then
move to temperatures at 24-39°F (-4 to +4°C) for 4-6 weeks. | Divide in
early spring.
Pests and Diseases:
Aphids or spider mites may be a problem.
Rainy Side Notes
Of all the primroses, Primula florindae is the most fragrant of them all with a wonderful nutmeg scent. It is the largest of the primroses, as well as the latest in the season to flower. Himalayan plant explorer Frank Kingdon-Ward named this primrose after his wife Florinda.
Imagine a problem wet area in your garden, planted with the giant Gunnera manicata and sweeps of Giant cowslip at their feet. Add a few Japanese iris for a spikey contrast and you have the makings of a beautiful bog garden. All these plants are perfectly suited to grow in boggy conditions. Problem solved! P. florindae can be grown in regular garden conditions as long as supplemental water is given during our annual summer drought.
Photographed in author's garden.

Gardening for the Homebrewer: Grow and Process Plants for Making Beer, Wine, Gruit, Cider, Perry, and More
By co-authors Debbie Teashon (Rainy Side Gardeners) and Wendy Tweton
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