Those who love primroses will have noticed that in the last 2-3 years new types have arrived, which are very different, larger, more beautiful and also more long-lasting on the balcony. They are on sale from February until the end of March in a larger pot than usual (ø12 cm pot instead of ø10) and are having great success thanks to their exuberant beauty and continuity of flowering. They lend themselves well to make a very beautiful and undemanding gift.
They are the PETTICOAT and the PEROLA
PETTICOAT
A Primula acaulis, it has a very showy bloom, up to 22-25 cm in diameter, when it is in full bloom, i.e. at home. The flowers and buds are much more numerous than the traditional varieties and each of them is out of the ordinary. They are large, double and dense with petals, slightly wavy resembling little roses.
The flowering time is twice as long as that of the traditional primrose, even with the warmer days of spring ripening the flowers more quickly.
Some colours, the lighter ones, are also slightly perfumed.
It makes a nice gift, also for Women’s Day.
PEROLA
Belongs to the species Primula Elatior, i.e. it has the highest flowering, on a central stem. The flowering stems follow one after the other throughout the spring with a flowering period lasting until April and beyond. There are often several flowering stems simultaneously above the foliage, which is covered by a large flower umbrella. It is also suitable for planting early in the garden, it will last even longer, as its flowers are more resistant to rain and cold and the roots will be able to deepen into the soil to make the foliage swell and bring out a few more flowering stems.
USEFUL TIPS
They should be placed outside on the window sill or balcony, preferring a position sheltered from the midday sun as this will make them last even longer.
Both varieties are still able to grow on the balcony, unlike the classic primrose we know. Therefore a few fertilisations 10-15 days apart will help the plant to develop an even larger foliage and colour the flowers even better.
A fertilisation with Iron EDDHA to the pot (best in the saucer) also helps to darken the leaves to a nice bright dark green.
As spring is just around the corner and houses are more airy, both Perola and Petticoat can now also be kept indoors in a bright room. They will last a little less than on the balcony, but we will have them in our sights more often.