This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: moist, humus-rich, neutral to acid soil
• Rate of growth: fast growing
• Flowering period: April to June
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Nicknamed the drumstick primrose, this variety sends up vibrant purple-mauve pom-poms of flowers from mid spring to early summer above spoon-shaped, bright green leaves. This primula looks great planted in a partially shady garden border with white flowers, or among ferns. The flowers provide a striking colour contrast and associate well with other spring-flowering bulbs.
  
  
• Garden care: Divide large clumps after the plant has flowered, preferably during a wet spell.