The Cowslip (Primula veris) is a member of the primula genus (primrose family) It is becoming more common again in English meadows and village greens since there has been a change in farming practices that is, away from intensive agriculture to a more conservation minded approach to food production. The Cowslip has long been thought of as a wildflower. In more recent times however, gardeners including myself, have introduced the cowslip to grass areas to bloom in April/May after early spring bulbs have finished. This hardy perennial prefers a sunny position in chalky alkaline not acidic soil. It will tolerate a partially shaded position but the quality of flowering may be reduced. Best planted or sown in Autumn, the Cowslip will naturally spread. If planted in grass, mowing should not be done until after the seeds have set and dispersed in late July (uk)
There are quite a few old English legends and myths surrounding the Cowslip. The name herb Peter was used widely in years gone by. It comes from the tale of St Peter who drops his keys at the gates to Heaven and a Cowslip springs from the spot where they land. The flowers were thought to be hiding places for fairies and that the plant had special powers to open the places where fairies hid their treasure. A woman who washes herself with water full of cowslip petals was said to be able to draw her lover closer to her. Today the Cowslip is the County Flower of four English counties.
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