Primrose Primula 'John Fielding' (Pr)
ABOUT
Primula 'John Fielding' is a captivating plant known for its striking flowers and foliage. The blooms of this variety are rich and vibrant, often exhibiting a bright, bold shade that makes them stand out in a garden setting. The flowers typically have a rounded shape, with petals that are arranged in a rosette form, giving them an almost cup-like appearance. The center of each flower is usually accented with a contrasting color, creating a captivating eye that draws in onlookers. The foliage of Primula 'John Fielding' consists of a basal rosette of leaves, which serve as a lush backdrop for the spectacular blossoms. The leaves are typically lush green, with a textured surface that can be crinkled or ruffled. The overall appearance of the plant exudes robustness and a cottage garden charm, making it a delightful addition to various garden settings, including borders, container gardens, and underplanting beneath taller plants. Primula 'John Fielding' brings color and life to any landscape with its ornamental appeal and its expressive blossoming habit.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Primrose, John Fielding Primula.
Common names
Primula 'John Fielding'
ToxicityTo humans
Primroses, including Primula 'John Fielding', are generally considered to be non-toxic to humans. However, some people may experience an allergic reaction or skin irritation upon contact with the plant's sap due to the presence of primin, a known skin irritant. If ingested, while not commonly poisonous, they can potentially cause mild stomach upset. It is always wise to exercise caution and avoid ingesting parts of ornamental plants because of their potential for unknown toxins or individual reactions.
To pets
Primroses, such as Primula 'John Fielding', are not typically listed as toxic to pets. Nevertheless, ingestion can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in some animals, such as vomiting or diarrhea. As with any non-food plant, pets should be discouraged from eating primroses to prevent any potential digestive issues. If you suspect your pet has ingested a large amount of any plant, it is always advisable to consult with a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
Spread
6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5-8
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Vibrant Color: Primula 'John Fielding', also known as Polyanthus, offers a range of bright and cheerful colors that can add visual appeal to any garden space.
- Early Bloom: This plant is known for its early spring flowers, which can bring life and color to the garden after the winter months.
- Long Flowering Period: Polyanthus has a lengthy flowering period, which ensures colorful blooms throughout the spring season.
- Low Maintenance: This variety of primula is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal maintenance beyond regular watering and occasional feeding.
- Cold Tolerant: As a hardy perennial, Polyanthus can withstand cooler temperatures, making it suitable for cooler climates and for adding early interest to the garden when many other plants are not in flower.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of Polyanthus attract bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for pollinating garden plants and the wider environment.
- Versatile Use: Polyanthus is suited for a variety of garden contexts, including borders, container planting, and as underplanting for shrubs and trees.
- Ground Cover: With its dense foliage, Polyanthus can serve as a ground cover, reducing weed growth and helping to protect the soil.
- Clump Forming: This plant naturally forms clumps, which can be easily divided to create new plants and spread the colorful display throughout your garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Decorative ice cubes: Freeze the blooms of Primula in ice cube trays to add a touch of elegance and color to your drinks at spring and summer gatherings.
- Edible cake decorations: Use the flowers of the Primrose to adorn cakes or desserts, giving them an attractive and edible garnish.
- Pressed flower crafts: Preserve the beauty of Primula flowers by pressing them and using them in crafts such as homemade cards, bookmarks, or framed art.
- Nature-inspired potpourri: Dry Primrose flowers and mix them with other natural elements to create a fragrant potpourri for your home.
- Plant dye: The petals of Primula can be used to naturally dye fabrics or paper, providing a range of soft, pastel colors.
- Floral baths: Add whole Primrose flowers to a warm bath for a visually relaxing experience and a light, floral fragrance.
- Homemade floral syrup: Infuse a simple syrup with Primrose flowers to create a flavorful addition to cocktails or sweet beverages.
- Garden stepping stones: Imprint Primrose flowers into wet concrete to create decorative, nature-themed stepping stones for the garden.
- Photography subject: Utilize the vibrant colors of Primula as a subject for macro photography, showcasing the intricate details of the blooms.
- Scented candles: Embed dried Primula flowers into homemade candles to add a touch of natural elegance and a light scent when the wax is melted.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Primrose is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Primrose is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Youthfulness: Primulas, also commonly known as primroses, are often associated with the essence of youth due to their early spring bloom, symbolizing new life and beginnings.
- Eternal Love: The primrose is also a symbol of eternal love, suggesting that love is everlasting and enduring through all conditions, much like the hardy nature of the plant.
- Hope: As one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, primroses represent hope and the expectation of pleasures to come after a long winter.
- Protection: In some traditions, primroses are thought to provide protection, keeping away harm and fostering safety within one's surroundings.
WaterThe English Primrose needs to be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Typically, it should be watered gently at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to disease. During the growing season, it may need water twice a week, depending on the climate and weather conditions. An average watering might involve around 16-32 ounces of water for a small potted plant or up to 2 gallons for larger varieties in garden beds, applied every three to four days.
LightEnglish Primrose thrives in partial shade where it receives filtered sunlight or morning sun with afternoon shade. The best spot for this plant would be in a location that mimics its natural woodland habitat, sheltered from the harsh midday sun, which can scorch its leaves.
TemperatureEnglish Primrose prefers cool temperatures and can survive in temperatures as low as 20°F but prefers a range between 50°F and 70°F. Hot temperatures above 80°F can stress the plant, so it is ideal to provide a cooler environment for optimal growth.
PruningPruning English Primrose involves removing spent flowers and yellowing leaves to encourage new growth and prevent disease. This should be done after blooms have faded, typically late spring or early summer. Deadheading the flowers after they wilt will help promote additional blooms.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for a Primrose (Primula 'John Fielding') is a well-draining, humus-rich soil with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. Integrate plenty of organic matter and ensure good drainage, perhaps by using perlite or vermiculite.
RepottingPrimrose should be repotted every one to two years to replenish the nutrients in the soil and accommodate root growth. Early spring is the ideal time for repotting a Primrose.
Humidity & MistingThe best humidity conditions for a Primrose are moderate to high, ideally between 50-70%. Avoid placing the plant near heating vents or air conditioners that can dry out the air.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure high humidity for indoor Primrose.
Outdoor
Keep in partial shade and protect from harsh sun for outdoor-grown Primrose.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Primula 'John Fielding', commonly known as Candelabra Primrose, begins with seed germination, which is facilitated by a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. Once germinated, the seedlings grow into juvenile plants, developing a rosette of leaves at the soil surface while establishing a root system. As the plants mature, they enter the vegetative stage, during which they continue to grow leaves and strengthen their stems. The next stage is the flowering phase, where the Primula 'John Fielding' produces tall whorls of vibrant, multicolored flowers, typically in late spring to early summer. After pollination, the flowers develop into capsules containing seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. In the final stage, the plant may enter a period of dormancy, particularly in colder climates, where it will die back to the crown, surviving the winter to regrow the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Primula 'John Fielding', commonly known as the John Fielding primrose, is typically propagated through division, which is best carried out in late summer or early fall after the flowering season. To propagate by division, carefully lift the parent plant from the soil, ensuring minimal root damage. Using a sharp and sterile knife or spade, divide the clump into smaller sections, each with a portion of the root system and several leaves. Replant the divisions immediately at the same soil depth they were growing previously, spacing them about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to allow adequate room for growth. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them. Over the next few weeks, keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged to ensure successful root development.
