Japanese Primrose

Primula japonica

Native to:
Japan, Kuril Is.

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Primulaceae
Genus:
Primula
Species:
Primula japonica
USDA Symbol:
PRJA2

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb
Height:
60 cm
Light Requirements:
Part Shade
Drought Tolerance:
Low
Bloom Months:
may,jun,jul
Bloom Colors:
pink, red, white, purple

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
Butterflies & Moths:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, butterflies
Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
tolerates poor drainage
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
Prefers damp, shaded woodland areas

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
Germination Time:
14–42 days
Notes:
Seeds require light for germination; surface sow and do not cover. Fresh seed germinates best.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Sow @ 4C for 3 months, then place @ 20C for 3 months.

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society