The name primrose comes from the Latin word primus, meaning early or first. Primroses are not related to the rosa family, even though the name suggests the first rose of the year. Poets write about primroses because they symbolize new life and reawakened love. They are mentioned many times by Shakespeare. In the language of flowers, the spring primrose is the flower of youth and grace. A "primrose path" means a pleasurable and ideal way to go.
In January, they're a cheerful sight outside Seattle grocery stores. Primroses are the first wave of nursery flowers to tempt shoppers on their way in. In a few weeks, the deluge of plant deliveries begins, but for now the choice is still nice and simple: which color is prettiest?
Although technically an perennial, I've never had luck getting them through the summer. But for about a dollar, they sure brighten up late winter.
Hanks has 5 (!!) primroses for sale each for $1.99...I almost bought one though they were so cheerful.
ReplyDeleteSo there is hope, after all, that winter will come to an end. We haven't seen hide nor hair of primroses here in Salt Lake yet. In another month, perhaps!
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