Identification - The Oxlip is a medium sized Primula that can reproduce both by seeds and vegetatively (pieces of plant rooting) . The leaves are a long oval shape abruptly narrowing into a long winged stalk. It is downy (hairy), paler green and less wrinkled than other native Primulas. The flowering head droops to one side. The table below describes the flowers and compares them with the two other native (indigenous) species.
- Oxlip (Primula elator)
- pale yellow flowers, clustered on stem
- peach scented.
- Cowslip (Primula veris)
- dark yellow/orange flowers, clustered on stem
- apricot scented.
- Primrose (Primlula vulgaris)
- pale yellow flowers on single stems.
General ecology - It is found exclusively in ancient woodlands within a 40 mile radius of Cambridge. It is associated with coppice - managed woods such as oak and ash woodlands, mainly on chalky boulder clay. It is an indicator species of ancient woodland along with small leaved lime (Tilia cordata) and the wild service tree (Sorbus torminalis). Its main threats are browsing pressure form deer and rabbits, increasing shade, herbicide, drought, hybridisation with introduced Primulas, and competition from other species.
Surveying tips - The best time to survey is during the flowering season - April
Photo - Ray Tabor