Primula bulleyana is a species of flowering plant in the family Primulaceae, native to hillsides in China.
Primula bulleyana is one of a group known as candelabra primulas,[1] so called because of the tiered arrangement of their flowers. It is a semi-evergreen perennial.[2] The sturdy, erect flowering stems appear in summer and are 50- long, rising in groups from a rosette of leaves 12- long and 3- broad. The whorls of multiple orange-yellow flowers, opening from red buds, are arranged in tiers. It thrives in a bright, moist environment, such as beside a pond.
This plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.[3] [4]
It was first introduced by George Forrest from Yunnan province, China, in 1906, and named after Arthur K Bulley, his first sponsor, who was a cotton broker from Liverpool and a keen amateur gardener. He founded the Bees Ltd. nursery and was responsible for the introduction of many hardy plants and alpines to Britain in the early 20th century.[5]
The plant formerly known as Primula beesiana (Bee's primrose) is now regarded as a synonym of P. bulleyana subsp. beesiana . It is similar in size and form to its parent, but has purple blooms. It is likewise a recipient of the RHS award.[6]