Biology:Primula malacoides

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Short description: Species of flowering plant

Primula malacoides
Primula malacoides3.jpg
Scientific classification edit
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Asterids
Order: Ericales
Family: Primulaceae
Genus: Primula
Species:
P. malacoides
Binomial name
Primula malacoides
Franch.[1]
Synonyms[2]
  • Auganthus malacoides (Franch.) Soják
  • Primula delicata Petitm.

Primula malacoides, called the fairy primrose or baby primrose, is a perennial species of Primula native to the Himalayas, Assam in India, Myanmar, and south-central and south east China.[2] It has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.[3]

Description

This plant usually has purple flowers, although some may have red, white or bright-pink flowers.[4]

Their hairy leaves measure at 4–8cm and are a pale-green colour. They usually grow to 30cm across and 20–40cm tall.[4]

History

This species was considered a weed as it would grow on the rice fields of Chinese farmers. This plant was cultivated from a seed by George Forrest in 1908. This species started gain popularity among commercial growers in England. Within a decade, a new strain which was colourful and fragrant was sold commercially in greenhouses in the USA and throughout Europe.[5]

Cultivation

This plant can be propagated by seed or by division in late summer.[4][6]

This species is a popular ornamental place and can be used as a houseplant or as a greenhouse plant.[4]

It should be grown in fertile, well-drained soil with regular waterings.[4][6]

Pests and disease

This plant is prone to infestation by aphids. Signs of infestation may include: honeydew secretion, galls, and distortion of leaves.[4]

Toxicity

The leaves may cause irritation. It is advised to wear gloves when handling this plant.[4]

This species may also have allergenic properties with symptoms including rashes and headaches.[6][5]

See also

References

Wikidata ☰ Q11076662 entry