Family: Primulaceae

These 11 or so species of alpine, perennial herbs are natives of mountain regions of Europe. Only a few species are cultivated, usually in rock gar-dens. Flowering very early in spring, they often push up and flower through the snow. The simple leaves, borne on long stalks, are usually rounded in shape, and the flowers are bell-shaped, with fringed lobes above the leaves.

Species

S. hungarica grows to 10 cm (4 in) high, with kidney-shaped leaves and lilac flowers.

S. minima, to 10 cm (4 in), has round to oval leaves and white or pale blue flowers.

S. montana is a mound-forming perennial, to 25 cm (10 in), with rounded, heart-shaped leaves with hairy stalks. The clusters of blue to lilac flowers appear in early spring.

S. villosa has round leaves with hairy stalks and pale violet flowers.

Cultivation

These plants need a cool, moist yet well-drained soil containing plenty of humus, and a position in partial shade, or full sun with shade during the hottest part of the day. Mulch with sharp sand or grit and ensure some protection from heavy rain in winter. Propagate from seed sown in a garden frame in autumn, or by division after flowering in spring.

Climate

Zone 6. Cool climates are best.