Primula vialii 'RED HOT POKER' orchid primrose, Chinese pagoda primrose
size/type
low perennial,low perennial
usual height
0,3-0,4m
usual width
0,3-0,4m
leaves
deciduous broadleaf
colour of leaves
flowers
showy
colour of flowers
blooming time
June-September
location
semi-shade / partial sun
USDA zone (lowest)
5 (down to -29°C)
winter protection
for zone 5+6
for zone 7
categorized
Description of the plant:
Orchid primrose or also called Chinese pagoda primrose comes from Sichuan and Yunnan (China) and just one look is not enough to tell that it is a primrose. This species has similar leaves but entirely different flowers and blooming time. Red Hot Poker is an orchid primrose variety producing rosettes of soft, narrowly lance-shaped or oblong, light green leaves. Flowers are borne atop about 30 cm tall stems from June until late July, and repeat flowering in late summer. The buds are formed in short, thick spikes, they are vibrant red and open into small, soft mauve, tubular flowers.
This primrose is a water loving perennial that does best in constantly moist, partially shaded sites, and takes occasional temporary flooding. If grown in full sun provide good irrigation – the ground must never dry out. Grow it in fertile soil of any pH. Hardy to about -29°C (USDA zone 5).
Last update 14-09-2013.
