Primula elatior - Yellow Oxlip

These perennial flowers bloom from a rosette of lush green leaves, with clusters of dark-eyed yellow flowers at the top. Hardy throughout the UK down to -20°C.

Bring spring blooms and lush foliage into your garden with this relative of the primrose.  Clusters of Oxlip flowers bloom atop tall stems, their bright yellow flowers with dark central 'eyes' all facing one direction as they open. These flowers will appreciate a bit of sun and plenty of moisture, and are a cheerful splash of colour early in the year.

Scientific Name
Primula elatior (taller primrose)

Common Name
Oxlip, True Oxlip

Origin
Native to much of Europe, including the UK, and parts of Asia and the Near East

Pruning Tips
No pruning required; you can let the flowers die back naturally towards the end of spring and enjoy the foliage all year.

Wildlife Value
Provides early forage for pollinators including bees, butterflies and moths.

Positioning
Happy in full sun to partial shade, make sure your oxlips are sheltered from harsh wind.

Water
Likes fairly moist soil when in bloom, but doesn't like to be soggy or sat in a puddle. Make sure the soil drains well and you shouldn't need to worry about watering extra except in drought conditions.

Soil
Make sure soil is well-draining and moderately fertile to keep your oxlip happy.

Food
Generally will be fine as long as there are some nutrients in the soil. They will benefit from annual mulching of compost or a high-potash feed (e.g. tomato feed) to boost their flowering time.

Pet-safe
No, this plant is toxic to cats, dogs and horses.

Sprouts Top Tips
An annual mulch is a great low-effort way to keep your oxlips happy and fed.
Too keep them looking great, plant in clusters and intersperse with other spring bloomers.

Extras
This plant has been given the RHS' prestigious Award of Garden Merit for its stellar all-round performance in the garden.