PlantFiles: Poker Primrose
Primula vialii

From Botanica Encyclopedia
PRIMULA - Primrose
This well-known much loved genus of perennials consists of around 400 species, found throughout the temperate regions of the northern hemisphere, although most densely concentrated in China and the Himalayas. They also occur on high mountains in the tropics, extending as far south as Papua New Guinea. They are mainly rhizomatous, though some have poorly developed rhizomes and are short lived (Primula malacoides, for example). The leaves are usually crowded into a basal tuft or rosette: mostly broadest toward their tips, they generally have toothed or scalloped margins. The flowering stems vary in form, but most often carry successive whorls or a single umbel of flowers or, in a few species, the flowers are tightly crowded into a terminal head or a short spike; in a few others they emerge singly or in small groups from among the leaves on short stalks. Flower shape, size and color vary so much that it is hard to generalize, though basically all have a tubular flower that opens abruptly into a funnel or flat disc with five or more petals that are often notched at their tips.
CULTIVATION:
Primulas like fertile, well-drained soil, part-shade and ample water. Propagate from seed in spring, early summer or fall, or by division or from root cuttings. Remove dead heads and old foliage after blooming. There is a primula for virtually every position and purpose.
PRIMULA VIALII
This 24" tall perennial species from Yunnan Province in China is remarkable for carrying its purple flowers in short spikes, quite unlike any other primula. The buds are bright crimson, giving the inforescence a two-toned effect. The foliage is lush and bright green. It needs a cool, mosit climate.
ZONES 7-9

beautiful plant, which has bloomed several times. I have several of the flower stalks drying on the plant as we speak. I will have the seeds for those who would like to have them. This is the first time I have ever got this plant. I ordered it through Michigan bulb company. It has also done well in my mother's yard in Hillsboro, Oregon and for myself in Aloha, Oregon. I will also post some pictures.

A short lived, perennial Primula from China.

Has oblong, mid-green, toothed, slightly hairy leaves. Bears upright spikes with a pyramidal shaped flower head where small, pendant, lavender flowers open from the bottom upwards. The calyx of the flower is a bright red.

Flowers May-July

Likes moist, rich, neutral to acid soil in parital shade although it will tolerate sun as long as the soil is constantly moist.