Primula 'Wanda'

Hybrid perennial of the Primula × juliana group, 'Wanda' is one of the oldest and most widespread cultivars of this group, introduced in Great Britain in the 1920s. Like its counterparts, it results from the cross between Primula vulgaris, common in Western Europe, and Primula juliae, a small species from the Caucasus. Its longevity in gardens testifies to an uncommon robustness among hybrid primroses.

The plant forms a low and spreading rosette, reaching 8 to 12 cm in height when in bloom, and gradually spreads by stolons to cover the ground with a dense carpet. The leaves are oval, medium green, with a slightly blistered surface and crenate edge, inherited from Primula juliae. The flowers, borne individually on short peduncles, are a bright and deep purple-magenta, with a well-defined bright yellow eye; their hue may slightly vary depending on the clones, some leaning more towards violet.

In cultivation, the flowering extends from February to April depending on conditions. 'Wanda' appreciates a cool, humus-rich, and well-drained soil, in partial shade or full sun if moisture is maintained. Vigorous and stoloniferous, it is suitable for rock gardens as well as shaded borders and light woodlands, where it can form large flowering colonies from the end of winter.