oxlip
Primula elatior
RHS AGM 1993
USDA zones4 to 8
SunHandles full sun to full shade
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size6 to 12 inches tall6 to 12 inches wide
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer
- Bloom color
- Yellow
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Oxlip (Primula elatior) is a perennial for borders, shade gardens, and naturalized areas. It is hardy to USDA zone 4, or down to -30°F (-34°C). This plant likes full sun to full shade and average to moist soil of most types. Its fragrant yellow flowers open in early to late spring and again in early to late summer, and butterflies visit them. It is not a favorite of deer or rabbits, though hungry ones will eat almost anything. It stays low at 6 to 12 inches tall.
Pairs well with Lenten rose, Patriot hosta, and Cinnamon fern.
Native range
Europe and southwestern Asia.