Primula vialii | orchid primrose

This very un-primrose-like primula is stunning! Fragrant tubular two-toned red and purple flowers rise above classic primula foliage from June to July. Completely unlike any other plant we know. 

Tricky to grow, but worth the effort. P. vialii can be found growing in cool, moist meadows, evergreen woods, and rocky meadows in its native China. It requires abundant moisture through the growing season but must remain dry through winter. Best grown in a partially shaded, sharply drained, humus rich raised bed. Can easily be kept dry enough through winter using evergreen boughs. 

Southern gardeners: this beauty is best avoided. It is not happy in areas with excessively hot summers.

Zones: 5 to 8
Family: Primulaceae
Type: Perennial
Height: 12 to 24 in.
Spread: 9 to 12 in.
Exposure: part shade
Soil: moist but well-drained, humus-rich
Bloom Time: June to July
Native Range: south-central China