Primula vulgaris Rambo F1 Red Flame - English Primrose

The Primula acaulis Rambo F1 'Red Flame' is a stemless primrose from a new series known for its sturdy and vigorous plants, with flowers reaching 6 cm (2in) in diameter. Bicoloured and flamboyant in 'Red Flame', its petals are golden yellow with a wide border of deep red stripes. These generous, flat and open flowers are very early bloomers: they appear in the heart of winter, in January and February, on a cushion of dark green leaves. Plant this primrose along the edge of a flowerbed or pathway, or in a balcony planter, in partial shade and in a soil that retains moisture.

The Primula acaulis, also known as Primula vulgaris, is a perennial herbaceous plant from the primrose family, a wild species found in our meadows and woodlands. 'Red Flame' is a recent hybrid known for its vigour and large flowers. It is a floriferous plant that forms a beautiful clump of lush foliage in just a few months, reaching a height of 15 cm (6in) and a width of about 20 to 25 cm (8 to 10in). It develops more or less persistent rosettes of spatulate, wavy and veined leaves, ranging from medium green to dark green.

The Rambo F1 'Red Flame' stemless primrose is tough, unaffected by climatic variations, and easy to grow. It reigns over winter balconies and pathway borders, positioned to be visible from the house as it is the first to bloom, at a time when one may not feel like going outside. This plant sets the stage for other primroses to come, followed by forget-me-nots, daffodils, Siberian squills, and Crocuses. Beneath the cover of bushes, in partial shade, they brighten up flowerbeds, rock gardens, and short grass meadows, among snowdrops and violets.

Benefits: They have the same properties as the common primrose and the oxlip: the flowers have soothing and calming effects, and are used in expectorant preparations. The leaves help prevent bruise formation, and the entire plant (especially the root) has analgesic, antispasmodic, diuretic, and expectorant properties.