(aka: Primula sieboldii Seneca Hill #2) Primula sieboldii 'New Snow' is a 2004 introduction from Ellen Hornig at Seneca Hill Perennials that was selected for its large white, deeply-cleft flowers, which appear on 8" tall stalks starting in mid-April (NC). Rich, well-drained soils will yield the best success (a 2' wide patch in 5 years) with this summer-dormant Primula sieboldii. Maintenance: The only maintenance which might be necessary when growing Primula sieboldii 'New snow' 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.
