What Are Yellow Primrose?

Growth Habit

• Yellow primrose grows 4 to 10 inches tall. The long leaves surround the 4-inch-tall flower stalks. The flowers grow 1 1/2 to 2 inches in diameter and bloom continuously between spring and late summer. The plants form a dense clump studded with yellow flowers. This low-growing perennial grows from a rhizome roots. The plants are cold-tolerant but the foliage and flowers die down to the ground in winter. In mild climates, yellow primrose plants remain green year-round.

Natural Habitat

• In its natural habitat, yellow primrose grows in a variety of soil and climate conditions. Look for yellow evening primrose in rocky, dry areas and open woodlands. Yellow primrose also grows along river valleys and in open prairie land. This perennial self-propagates from seed and the spreading underground rhizome roots. According to the Utah State University, cattle and other grazing animals tend to avoid yellow primrose plants.

Yellow Primrose in the Garden

• Plant yellow primrose in rock gardens and rockeries where the low growth habit and bright yellow flowers add low-maintenance color. Evening yellow primrose adds color to cottage and native plant gardens, along border areas and in wild garden areas. This plant grows well in rocky, dry soil and damp or moist soil. Avoid planting in standing water and boggy areas. Plant yellow primrose in a spot that gets full sun, at least six hours a day.

Propagation and Planting

• Plant new plants in spring to give the yellow primrose the late spring and summer growing season to establish. Transplant yellow primrose in spring when the first new shoots emerge from the roots. Propagate from seeds collected in the fall when the seed heads dry completely. Sow seeds in seed flats or in a garden bed. Cover the tiny seeds with 1/8 inch of soil. Evening primrose seeds take 15 to 20 days to germinate.