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Description
Primula Elatior, also known as the oxlip or true oxlip, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Primula genus. It is native to Europe and can be found in moist meadows, woodlands, and hedgerows. The plant has a rosette of basal leaves, which are dark green in color and have wavy margins. The flowers are pale yellow and have a sweet fragrance that attracts bees and butterflies. The plant blooms in early spring and can grow up to 30 cm tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Primulaceae |
| Genus | Primula |
Appearance
Primula Elatior has a basal rosette of dark green leaves with wavy margins. The leaves are oblong and can grow up to 15 cm long. The flowers are pale yellow and have five petals. They are arranged in umbels on a central stalk that can grow up to 30 cm tall. The plant blooms in early spring and has a sweet fragrance that attracts bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Primula Elatior is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
- Soil: Plant the oxlip in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade or dappled sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: Primula Elatior is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Primula Elatior is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause damage. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use slug bait or copper tape to keep them away.
- Botrytis: This fungal disease can cause gray mold on the plant. Remove infected plant parts and treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Primula Elatior is native to Europe and can be found in moist meadows, woodlands, and hedgerows. The plant prefers cool, moist climates and partial shade. It is commonly used in cottage gardens and naturalistic landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Primula Elatior toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to pets if ingested.
Q: Can I grow Primula Elatior indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a cool, bright location.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Primula Elatior?
A: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in late summer.
Q: How do I propagate Primula Elatior?
A: The plant can be propagated by dividing the clumps in early spring or by taking stem cuttings in summer.
Related Plants
- Primula vulgaris
- Primula veris
- Primula denticulata
- Primula polyantha
References
- “Primula elatior.” RHS. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/20307/primula-elatior/details (accessed May 17, 2021).
- “Primula elatior (Oxlip).” Gardenia.net. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/primula-elatior-oxlip (accessed May 17, 2021).
- “Primula elatior.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a695 (accessed May 17, 2021).
