Primulas, primroses and polyanthus

What is the difference between a Primula, a Primrose and a Polyanthus? A question that vexes many at this time of year!

Primula is the Latin name for the family that includes both primroses and polyanthus.

Whilst primrose flowers hug the ground (pictured left), polyanthus blooms are raised up on stalks (pictured right).

The family also includes double Primlets, cowslips, auriculas and many others!