Quick Guide: spring, hardy, sun/semi-shade, height: 15-20cm/6-8in, width: 15-20cm/6-8in

The primula family comprises a number of hardy perennials including Primula veris, the cowslip, and P. vulgaris, the primrose. The polyanthus is a hybrid of these two, with characteristic whorls of primrose flowers in a huge variety of colours, carried on strong stems above a rosette of oval leaves. They can be treated as indoor pot plants, but are ideal at the front of-the border or in tubs and window boxes.

GROWING Set out plants in autumn or spring in heavy, moist soil into which plenty of organic matter has been incorporated. A site in full sun or partial shade will do.

PROPAGATION Divide the plants every 3 years immediately after flowering and replant straight away.

VARIETIES Pacific strain (above), large blooms, early flowering, bright colours including white, yellow, pink, red, purple and blue; `Cowichan', mixed colours, no central eye.

POSSIBLE PROBLEMS Slugs on leaves in spring; grey mould; leaf spot on older plants.