Scottish primrose
This flowering plant, which is unique to Scotland, grows in our windswept coastal habitats, close to the cliff edge.
The Scottish primrose (Primula scotica) is found in Orkney and on the northern coast of the Scottish mainland and nowhere else in the world.
Tiny and fragile, this purple primrose has a delicate scent that’s difficult for humans to detect in its windswept habitats.
The core of its habitat is the storm-battered cliff edge, where winds trim back its taller competitors. Grazing by sheep has likely extended the range of the Scottish primrose into close-cropped pastures where they also can’t be smothered by taller vegetation.
Scottish primrose
Protection of Scottish primrose
Discover how Scotland’s wild plants and fungi are protected.
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