The Vernales section of primulas, correctly called section Primula, includes our beloved primrose, cowslip and oxlip, which are usually, but not always, pale yellow. There are also some bright pink species from further afield - not to mention the polyanthus hybrids, with appallingly vivid colours, fortunately kept away from us in municipal plantings in the middles of roundabouts.

Primula 'Old Port' has the general appearance of a primrose, with bright green leaves, but the flowers are port wine red. They continue over a long period in spring, and appear intermittently at other times. A very reliable garden plant.