Primula are an easy to grow group of perennial plants which come in many different colours and shapes. Many people thinking of Primula will bring to mind the popular Polyanthus types illustrated left, but in fact there are many different types, shapes, sizes and colours of Primula and they are great garden plants.
Within the genus are the Polyanthus group (image left) is the most common, frequently sold on line and in garden centers as winter and spring bedding.
It is easy to think of these plants just as bedding, but there are some lovely perennial Primula which make great spring colour and early summer colour.
Violas are typically lower growing than pansies, with smaller, more abundant flowers. Many violas form a trailing habit and look fabulous in a hanging basket, patio pot or window box. Don’t be put off by their smaller size – in fact violas will produce more flowers per plant than a pansy! Here’s our step by step guide to fabulous violas.
Violas are profuse, low-growing cottage garden perennials. The colour combinations you can achieve are myriad – purples, lilacs, pinks, blues and magentas. Varieties available cover trailing violas, double-flowered and colour-changing flowers, as well as violas with particularly striking, variegated foliage. Viola flowers are also edible – you can add a dash of colour to a salad or as a garnish, or use them in jams, cakes or as decoration on the top of biscuits!
