Primrose  (Primula vulgaris)

This species is widespread in Britain, and unlike the related cowslip (P. veris), populations of the primrose have not fluctuated much in the last century (3). Outside of Britain, it occurs in southern, western and south central Europe; other subspecies are found in southern Europe and North Africa (2).

Inhabits woodlands, hedgerows, shaded mountain-cliffs and north-facing banks. It prefers sites that are shaded from hot sun (3), and thrives best in damp conditions; it occurs in a broader range of habitats in the west, where rainfall is higher (4).