Primula vialii RHS AGM P9

Primula vialii – Orchid Primrose

Primula vialii, commonly known as the Orchid Primrose, is an unusual and striking hardy perennial, prized for its distinctive, two-toned summer flowers. Upright, conical flower spikes emerge with brilliant crimson-red buds, gradually opening from the base upwards into delicate lilac-purple flowers, creating a spectacular red-and-purple display . Soft green, lance-shaped leaves form an attractive basal rosette.

Growing approximately 30–50cm tall and 25–30cm wide, this compact, clump-forming perennial thrives in partial shade, preferring consistently moist, fertile, humus-rich, acidic to neutral soil. It dislikes prolonged drought and winter waterlogging.

An excellent choice for woodland gardens, moist shady borders, pond margins, streamside planting and naturalistic gardens. It combines beautifully with ferns, hostas and other moisture-loving perennials.

RHS Award of Garden Merit (AGM).