CHAPTER XI. 



Primulas (Primroses). 



It would be difficult to exaggerate the beauty and 

 value of the Primroses. When we think of the 

 magnificent Chinese Primulas which adorn our green- 

 houses in winter, of the lovely natives of our woods 

 and of the numerous brilliant Alpine species collected 

 from various parts of the world, we see in the genus 

 one of the most remarkable of any at the service of the 

 flower-lover. 



The hardy Primulas are numerous, and they are of 

 great beauty. There are considerable differences among 

 them, both of structure and requirements. Some 

 are close, tufty gems of the accepted Alpine type, 

 others moderately tall. Some are sun-lovers, others 

 shade-lovers. Some love lime, others granite. These 

 variations do not rob the genus of its interest, 

 to many people they augment it. They mean that it 

 needs detailed study if it is to be grown to the greatest 

 advantage. 



The hardy Primulas are mostly spring bloomers, 

 coming into flower at the same season when the wild 

 Primrose is making the banks and dells gay, but a few 

 flower in summer. 



The rock gardener will pay special attention to this 



l66 



