Primula elatior Double Rubens - Oxlip

The Wood Primrose, better known as the oxslip, is a perennial herbaceous plant that blooms early in the spring between March and May. This flowering cheerfully announces the arrival of sunny days and composes the first bouquets. It is a woodland plant that easily settles in the garden with a semi-shaded exposure.

The sulphur yellow flowers of Primula elatior are borne above semi-evergreen leaves, 10-20cm (4-8in) long, oval-oblong in shape, medium green, wavy and covered with soft hairs on the underside. The erect rigid stems bear unilateral multiflower umbels consisting of 2 to 12 flowers. The genus name comes from the Latin word "primus" which means "first" and refers to the early flowering period of the best-known primroses species.

This elegant flower is often found in woodlands, fresh meadows or embankments. It is mainly present in Western and Central Europe, in the northeastern quarter of France. It is rare in the southeast and some western regions, and absent along the Mediterranean coast.

The primrose generally prefers a semi-shaded location and a non-scorching exposure. It likes humus-rich and moist soils, without stagnant moisture in winter. It is perfect for creating a natural and countryside atmosphere in a garden that is a bit too formal.

Like P.veris and P.vulgaris, its leaves and flowers have medicinal properties and can be consumed raw or cooked. In particular, primrose flower tea helps to relieve chesty coughs.

The primrose pairs well with forget-me-nots, bleeding hearts, and aubrietas, and accompanies the spring flowering bulbs such as crocuses, daffodils, or tulips.