We have been thrilled at the performance of Primula sieboldii 'Fuji Snow' in our hot, humid, primula-deprived climate, and one of the best clones in our trials has been Primula 'Fuji Snow'. Our five-year-old clumps, acquired from the late Heronswood Nursery, are now 2' across. Emerging in mid-spring (early April, NC), the 6" tall clumps of serrated, upright, spade-shaped, light green leaves are topped with 10" tall stalks of pure white flowers. Moist, organically rich soils are preferred, but we have been quite successful with Primula sieboldii 'Fuji Snow' in much drier spots, although by late summer the clumps have gone dormant. Maintenance: The only maintenance which might be necessary when growing Primula sieboldii might be to remove the old foliage and flower stalks as it goes dormant come hot weather. But memory suggests that it might quietly disappear on its own. It might be beneficial to mark its location so one does not dig it up while it is dormant. Growing Conditions: Primula sieboldii is a woodland plant which returns from dormancy in late winter and flowers in spring. While in growth it makes use of the sunlight available while the tree canopy is leafless and the greater moisture available at that time of the year. Like many a native spring ephemeral it goes dormant by early summer as growing conditions become less hospitable. This is a species that thrives in the growing conditions of the southeast US. Moist well drained soils suit it best; avoid soggy sites. Garden Value: A charming addition to the spring bloom display in a shade garden. The flowers vary from white to pale pink through rich dark purple. Flowers are often bi-colored and quite beautifully snowflake shaped. The foliage is also an asset, being a lively spring green and roughly arrow shaped, with a scalloped edge and deeply impressed veins. Primula sieboldii spreads at a modest rate and could be used as a small scale ground cover though it only covers the ground for about one third of the year. Its early rising habit makes it a good companion for plants that are late to come into new growth in the spring such as some Hosta and some Arisaema (Jack-in-the-Pulpits); thereby two plants occupying the same site but at opposite seasons.
