
©Guy Edwardes/2020VISION
Cowslip
Scientific name: Primula veris
One of our most familiar spring flowers, the Cowslip brightens up ancient meadows and woodlands with its egg-yolk-yellow, nodding blooms.
Species information
Category
Statistics
Height: up to 25cmConservation status
Protected in Northern Ireland under the Wildlife Order, 1985.
When to see
April to MayAbout
The Cowslip is a cousin of the Primrose and is also an early spring flower. Formerly a common plant of traditional hay meadows, ancient woodlands and hedgerows, the loss of these habitats has caused a serious decline in its populations and now fields coloured bright yellow with its nodding heads are a rare sight.Like many other spring flowers, the Cowslip is closely associated with English folklore and tradition, including adorning garlands for May Day and being strewn on church paths for weddings.