The primrose is a perennial plant, growing 3 to 6 inches tall, that grows in temperate zones of the Northern Hemisphere and in the foothills of the Alps. The plant has a creeping subterranean stem, that sends out roots from the tubers at intervals of 1–2 inches. This spreading habit can make them a garden invader if not controlled. The leaves are green and downy, and the flowers are yellow.
The Primroses are the prime representative of the Onagraceae family in our gardens, and whilst there are a few wild species, most of those grown for the garden are hybrids, which have been produced by crossing various species to produce a whole range of differing colours and forms. Primroses do best in a well-drained soil with a neutral pH, in full sun or part shade. They can be propagated either from seed or by division.