Sneak Peek at Spring Blooming Primrose (Cowslip)

Yellow Flowering Primula Veris

I couldn't resist going into the archives to pull out this photo of my Primula Veris or otherwise known as the herbal Cowslip.  I took it last spring but never used the photos for anything.  

I planted this primula some years ago...it was from a gardening friend who was in his upper 70's  and who could garden circles around me.  His energy was incredible and his gardens extensive.  A former English teacher, he bought interesting plants and bulbs from all over the world and this was one of many plants he passed on to me.  

I really didn't know much about it except that it was a primrose, and not the ones you commonly find in the stores.  So, I did a bit of research to learn more about this beautiful hardy perennial with its sunshine-y petals.

It is thought that the name "cowslip" comes from when it was found blooming in the meadows where cows were pastured. It is a low-growing plant with a rosette of leaves that produces a stalks of 10-30 flowers on a single stem.  It is a parent of the modern primrose and blooms from April to May.  It's also a favorite food of rabbits and I'm thankful my one specimen has survived the many rabbits in our little bit of suburbia. 

Some of its herbal uses are for insomnia and anxiety in tincture form.  The petals are thought to have a calming effect and promote sweating in the case of fevers. Ointments with the petals are used for sunburns and skin blemishes.

Common Name: Cowslip

I've not used mine medicinally as I have other plants that I can use that are more plentiful for the same things.  I just like how dependably beautiful this plant is year from year.  I have it planted in an east location in part shade where it does well.  It doesn't like hot summers though, so I try to water it occasionally when I see it wilting.  

If you don't have one of these beauties in your perennial border, you may want to check them out, they're are worth having and they won't disappoint.

Besides, why should cows be the only ones to enjoy them?

What's your favorite primrose?

Herbal information resource for this article: http://www.herbalremedies.com/cowslip-information.html

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