Primula × polyantha 'Stella Scarlet Pimpernel' is a compact primrose that flowers early in the garden season.

Clusters of scarlet red flowers with yellow centres rise above a rosette of green leaves. Flowers appear in winter and continue into spring, bringing colour when many plants remain dormant.

This variety belongs to the Stella series, bred for strong flowering and tidy growth. You can plant it in borders, containers, or window boxes where early colour is needed.

Key Features

• Botanical name: Primula × polyantha 'Stella Scarlet Pimpernel'
• Common names: Polyanthus primrose, garden primrose, Stella primrose
• Plant type: Semi-evergreen perennial
• Flower colour: Scarlet red with yellow centre
• Flowering period: Winter to spring
• Foliage: Green rosette-forming leaves
• Height: Up to 20cm
• Spread: Up to 20cm
• Position: Partial sun or light shade
• Soil: Moist but well drained soil

Benefits for UK Wildlife

• Early blooms provide nectar for bees and pollinating insects.
• Supports insects emerging in late winter and early spring.
• Pairs well with other early flowering plants in wildlife-friendly gardens.

Want to attract early pollinators to your garden? Grow primulas in clusters so insects can find them easily when food sources are limited.

Planting Tips

• Plant in fertile soil that holds moisture but drains well.
• Choose a position with partial sun or light shade.
• Water during dry spells to keep the soil evenly moist.
• Remove faded flowers to keep plants neat and encourage further blooms.
• Divide mature clumps every few years to refresh plants.

Where to Grow

• Front of flower borders
• Patio containers and planters
• Cottage garden planting
• Shaded beds and woodland-style areas
• Wildlife-friendly garden borders

Plant several together along paths or border edges. The compact size allows you to add colour to small spaces while supporting early pollinators.