Primula pulverulenta, the mealy primrose[2] or mealy cowslip,[3] is a species of flowering plant in the family Primulaceae.[1][4] It is native to damp habitats in China. It is a herbaceous perennial growing to 100 cm (39 in) tall by 60 cm (24 in) broad, with strong stems of deep pink flowers arising from basal rosettes of leaves in early summer. The flowers are grouped at intervals along the stem in a tiered formation,[5] hence the common name "candelabra primula" which is often applied to this and other species with a similar arrangement.
| Primula pulverulenta | |
|---|---|
 | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Asterids |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Primulaceae |
| Genus: | Primula |
| Species: | P. pulverulenta |
| Binomial name | |
| Primula pulverulenta | |
| Synonyms[1] | |
| |
The leaves are obovate to oblanceolate, measuring 10 - 30 cm long and 8 - 10 cm wide. They have a rugged, dentate appearance, narrowing towards the petiole[6]
The specific epithet pulverulenta, meaning "dust", refers to the mealy white layer (farina) covering the stems of the plant.[7]
This plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.[2][8] In cultivation it requires a neutral or acid soil which remains permanently moist, such as the bank of a stream or pond, in full or partial sunlight.[2]