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 'Gigha' is an excellent variety of the primrose, reliably producing its pure white flowers very early in spring, and from time to time throughout the year. It multiplies rapidly, and will soon form a good patch, particularly if the plants are split every few years.