Primula x polyantha False Oxlip (P. veris x vulgaris)

Cowslip (Primula veris) and Primrose (Primula vulgaris) are interfertile and where they occur in close proximity, cross fertilation and hybridisation is possible. Both parents and the hybrid have the same chromosome number (2n = 22) and Clive Stace describes it as one of the most common hybrids in the British Flora. It is always intermediate in form and usually bears umbellate clusters of flowers on a long leafless stalk (scape) like Cowslip, but the individual flowers are larger (usually > 30mm in diameter), much more like those of Primrose and a richer yellow in colour. Oxlip (Primula elatior) is similar but it has smaller flowers (usually < 30mm in diameter) which are usually a paler yellow colour. It is usually quite obviously intermediate between Primrose and Cowslip  in structure when observed. It is partially fertile, but back-crossing and introgression are apparently rare. It is found throughout Britain where both parents are found and the liklihood of hybridisation in many regions has increased as a result of deliberate introductions and cultivation of both parents. Strangely, there are few records from West Glamorgan where it may have been overlooked. The garden cultivar known as Polyanthus is probably of a similar hybrid origin.

Native