They are known among experts for their early flowering, their multifaceted nature, but also for their poisonous potential - the primula family. So that you also know in the future what we are talking about when the term primrose family is mentioned, their peculiarities are summarized here.

Primrose plants are slightly toxic and can cause skin irritation

More than 2500 species worldwide

There are 58 genera and around 2590 species in the world that belong to the primrose family. That's quite a lot! At least 10 genera and 10 species are native to Central Europe. The other representatives are from the northern hemisphere to the tropics.

Primroses are 'the first'

The primrose family, which is botanically referred to as Primulaceae and belongs to the order of the heather family, shows one of its most important characteristics with its name. 'Primula' is derived from Latin and translated into German means 'the first'. This refers to the early flowering period.

Annual or perennial plants

The primrose plants are annual or perennial herbs or woody plants such as subshrubs, shrubs, trees and lianas. They survive in the ground with the help of their rhizomes or tubers. As a rule, they are extremely cold-tolerant. It is not without reason that they are common in high mountains and the Arctic, among others.

External main features that unite all

In most primrose species, the leaves are fused into a basal rosette. In very few species, the leaves are alternate or opposite on the stem. They are simple in structure, smooth-edged or serrated. There are no side leaves.

The flowers are the main reason for the popularity of these plants. She:

  • stand alone, in racemes, umbels or panicles
  • are hermaphrodite, radially symmetric and fivefold
  • have a double perianth
  • five free stamens and a superior ovary protrude from the middle of the flowers
  • are pollinated by insects
  • develop into capsule fruits

Primula family: poisonous, medicinal and ornamental

Primroses produce a glandular secretion called primin. It is toxic and known to cause skin irritation. The saponins in the primrose plants, on the other hand, are known for their healing effects. Furthermore, many primrose plants are important as ornamental plants.

tips and tricks

Among the most popular and proven primrose plants for the garden and the pot are cup primroses and cushion primroses.

Category:

Indoor plants