Plant Library

Other Names:  Primrose, Polyanthus

Description:

This hybrid variety features large heads of nodding flowers in varying shades of red, orange and yellow; perfect for a moist area that is protected from hot afternoon sun; may be divided in early fall

Ornamental Features

Sunset Shades Cowslip features delicate fragrant nodding red tubular flowers with orange overtones, yellow throats and creamy white sheaths at the ends of the stems from mid to late spring. Its small crinkled oval leaves remain green in color throughout the season.

Landscape Attributes

Sunset Shades Cowslip is an herbaceous perennial with tall flower stalks held atop a low mound of foliage. It brings an extremely fine and delicate texture to the garden composition and should be used to full effect.

This is a relatively low maintenance plant, and should be cut back in late fall in preparation for winter. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

• Self-Seeding

Sunset Shades Cowslip is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Mass Planting
• Rock/Alpine Gardens
• Border Edging
• General Garden Use

Planting & Growing

Sunset Shades Cowslip will grow to be only 4 inches tall at maturity extending to 8 inches tall with the flowers, with a spread of 12 inches. When grown in masses or used as a bedding plant, individual plants should be spaced approximately 9 inches apart. Its foliage tends to remain low and dense right to the ground. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 5 years. As an herbaceous perennial, this plant will usually die back to the crown each winter, and will regrow from the base each spring. Be careful not to disturb the crown in late winter when it may not be readily seen!

This plant does best in partial shade to shade. It does best in average to evenly moist conditions, but will not tolerate standing water. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution, and will benefit from being planted in a relatively sheltered location. Consider applying a thick mulch around the root zone in both summer and winter to conserve soil moisture and protect it in exposed locations or colder microclimates. This is a selected variety of a species not originally from North America.